Earthquakes risk in Nebraska

Earthquake risk in Nebraska: what homeowners should know

Nebraska is not a high-risk earthquake state. According to federal hazard assessments, including the FEMA earthquake safety framework and the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program, Nebraska is rated level 1 out of 5 for earthquake hazard. That means damaging earthquakes are rare, but not impossible. The state sits far from major plate boundaries, yet it contains ancient faults and can be shaken by moderate regional earthquakes.

Most of Nebraska's recognized seismic activity is in the eastern part of the state, especially near the Nemaha Ridge and Humboldt Fault Zone in southeast Nebraska. Smaller earthquakes have also been recorded in other parts of the state, and Nebraskans can occasionally feel shaking from events centered in neighboring states. Western Nebraska is closer to the seismically active Rocky Mountain region, while eastern Nebraska is closer to the New Madrid Seismic Zone and the Humboldt Fault Zone. No area of Nebraska is earthquake-proof, but the eastern counties generally have the longest record of felt events.

Earthquakes have no season. Unlike tornadoes, floods, or winter storms, they can happen at any time of year, in any weather, and without warning. Nebraska's most likely earthquake scenario is light to moderate shaking—enough to rattle windows, knock items off shelves, and occasionally crack drywall or masonry—rather than widespread collapse. Still, even moderate shaking can damage vulnerable homes, especially older structures with unreinforced brick, stone, or chimneys.

How it affects homes

Earthquake damage to Nebraska homes usually comes from ground shaking rather than ground rupture. Shaking can:

• Crack foundation walls, basement floors, and concrete slabs.
• Open gaps around windows and doors, making them stick.
• Crack brick veneer, stucco, and interior drywall.
• Damage or topple chimneys, especially tall, older masonry chimneys.
• Shift porches, steps, and attached garages.
• Send water heaters, bookcases, televisions, and kitchen cabinet contents falling.
• Break gas lines or cause utility connections to leak, creating fire risk.

Older homes and unreinforced masonry buildings are generally more vulnerable. Nebraska has many homes with basements and brick exteriors; while these features can perform well in ordinary weather, unreinforced brick and stone can crack in an earthquake. A home that is well anchored to its foundation and has been retrofitted is likely to fare better.

Insurance is a key consideration. Standard homeowners, renters, and condo policies in Nebraska typically do not cover earthquake damage. Coverage is usually available only through a separate earthquake policy or an endorsement, and it often carries a percentage deductible rather than a flat dollar deductible. Ask your insurance agent specifically about earthquake coverage, what it covers, and what the deductible would be. Federal disaster assistance may be available after a presidentially declared disaster, but it is not a substitute for insurance and is not guaranteed.

How to prepare your home

Because Nebraska's risk is low, the goal is not to rebuild your house—it is to reduce the chance of injury and expensive repairs. Practical steps include:

1. Secure tall furniture and appliances. Anchor bookcases, china cabinets, televisions, and shelving to wall studs. Use sturdy brackets, straps, or museum putty for fragile items.
2. Strap your water heater. A water heater can tip during shaking, breaking gas or water lines. Use approved straps and follow local code or manufacturer instructions.
3. Know how to shut off utilities. Learn where your gas meter and main water valve are. Only shut off gas if you smell gas or are instructed by authorities—and let a professional turn it back on.
4. Inspect and maintain chimneys. Have older masonry chimneys evaluated by a qualified professional. Bracing or reinforcing a weak chimney can reduce the chance of collapse.
5. Reduce falling hazards. Store heavy items on lower shelves. Add latches to kitchen cabinets. Secure mirrors, framed pictures, and light fixtures away from beds and seating areas.
6. Check foundation and cripple walls. If you own an older home or a home with a raised foundation, ask a licensed engineer or contractor whether bolting, bracing, or foundation retrofitting makes sense.
7. Prepare an emergency kit. Include water, nonperishable food, flashlights, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, first-aid supplies, medications, and copies of important documents. Keep sturdy shoes and work gloves near your bed.
8. Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On. During shaking, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until shaking stops. If no shelter is nearby, get low and protect your head and neck away from windows.
9. Review your insurance. Decide whether earthquake coverage makes sense for your home, budget, and tolerance for risk. Even in a low-risk state, a separate policy can help with repair costs after a rare event.
10. Make a family plan. Choose an out-of-area contact and a meeting place. Practice your plan with everyone in the household, including children and older adults.

Frequently asked questions

Does Nebraska actually have earthquakes?

Yes, but damaging earthquakes are uncommon. USGS records show that small earthquakes occur in and near Nebraska, with the eastern part of the state—especially the Nemaha Ridge and Humboldt Fault Zone area—having the most recognized activity. Nebraskans may also feel shaking from earthquakes centered in nearby states. The state's overall hazard rating remains low, which is why preparedness focuses on basic safety and securing items rather than major structural upgrades.

Is earthquake insurance worth it in Nebraska?

That depends on your home, finances, and comfort with risk. Because Nebraska is rated 1 out of 5 for earthquake hazard, many homeowners choose not to buy coverage. However, standard policies usually exclude earthquake damage, so if a rare damaging quake would be financially difficult for you, ask your insurer for a quote and read the deductible carefully. A high percentage deductible means you would pay a larger share of repairs before coverage begins.

What should I do during an earthquake in Nebraska?

Follow the same guidance recommended by Ready.gov: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Get under a sturdy table or desk, protect your head and neck, and stay there until shaking stops. If you are indoors, stay indoors; if you are outdoors, move away from buildings, streetlights, and power lines. After shaking stops, check for injuries and hazards, avoid using open flames, and follow instructions from the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency and local officials.

Official resources

• Nebraska Emergency Management Agency – state preparedness, response, and recovery information.
• USGS Earthquake Hazards Program – earthquake maps, research, and real-time information.
• Ready.gov – Earthquakes – federal guidance on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake.
• FEMA Earthquake Safety – risk management and safety resources for homes and communities.