Earthquakes risk in New Mexico

Earthquake risk in New Mexico: what homeowners should know

New Mexico is not typically considered a high-risk earthquake state, but it does have active faults and a history of moderate seismic events. The state's earthquake activity is largely driven by the Rio Grande Rift, a zone of crustal stretching that runs north-south through the center of New Mexico, from the Colorado border to the El Paso area. This rift system includes several fault basins, such as the Albuquerque Basin, the Española Basin, and the Socorro Basin. Another notable feature is the Jemez Lineament, a northeast-trending belt of ancient faults that intersects the rift. The most seismically active areas include the Socorro region, which has experienced earthquake swarms and damaging quakes; the northern Rio Grande valley near Taos and Española; and the Albuquerque metropolitan area, which sits within the rift. In recent years, parts of southeastern New Mexico have also seen increased seismic activity, some of which has been linked to oil and gas operations, though natural earthquakes also occur there.

Earthquakes can happen at any time of year in New Mexico; they are not seasonal. While the state rarely experiences the magnitude 7+ earthquakes that strike California or Alaska, it has had damaging events. For example, a significant earthquake struck near Socorro in 1906, causing damage in the town. Smaller earthquakes are recorded regularly by seismic networks. The USGS Earthquake Hazards Program monitors and reports on this activity. The New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management advises residents to be aware of the risk and prepare. Homeowners in the Rio Grande Rift corridor, particularly those near mapped fault lines, should understand their exposure.

How it affects homes

Most earthquake damage to homes in New Mexico would come from ground shaking. Even moderate earthquakes can crack foundations, walls, and chimneys; shift homes off their foundations; and cause items inside to fall. Because many New Mexico homes are built with unreinforced masonry (brick, adobe, or stone) or have unreinforced chimneys, they may be more vulnerable to shaking. Older homes, especially those built before modern building codes, are at greater risk. Mobile and manufactured homes can also be damaged if not properly tied down.

Typical damage includes: cracked or collapsed chimneys, which can be a falling hazard; cracks in interior and exterior walls; broken windows; and damage to porches, decks, and foundations. In severe cases, homes can be displaced from their foundations. Non-structural damage—such as toppled water heaters, broken gas lines, and fallen shelving—can also be costly and dangerous. It's important to note that standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover earthquake damage. In New Mexico, earthquake coverage is usually available as an endorsement or a separate policy, but it may be costly or have high deductibles. Homeowners should check with their insurance agent to understand their options. FEMA assistance may be available after a federally declared disaster, but it is not a substitute for insurance.

How to prepare your home

There are several steps homeowners can take to reduce earthquake risk and prepare for the aftermath. These measures can protect your family and property, and make recovery faster.

• Secure your home's structure: If you have a crawl space, ensure your home is bolted to its foundation. Consider having a licensed engineer or contractor evaluate and retrofit your home, especially if it is older or has unreinforced masonry.
• Brace and anchor tall furniture: Anchor bookcases, cabinets, and water heaters to wall studs. Use flexible connectors for gas appliances and water heaters to prevent leaks.
• Secure heavy items: Move heavy objects to lower shelves. Use museum putty or safety straps to secure TVs, computers, and breakables.
• Reinforce chimneys: Unreinforced chimneys are a common source of damage. Consider having a mason reinforce or brace your chimney, or replace it with a more earthquake-resistant design.
• Install automatic gas shut-off valves: These can prevent fires if a gas line breaks during an earthquake.
• Create a disaster kit: Include water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, medications, and important documents. Ready.gov recommends at least a 3-day supply.
• Make a family communication plan: Decide how you will contact each other and where you will meet if separated. Practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" drills.
• Know your insurance coverage: Review your policy and consider purchasing earthquake insurance. Understand deductibles and exclusions.
• Conduct a home hazard hunt: Identify items that could fall or cause injury and fix them. Secure mirrors, pictures, and light fixtures.
• Stay informed: Follow local emergency management and the USGS for earthquake updates. Sign up for alerts if available.

Frequently asked questions

Does New Mexico have earthquakes?

Yes, New Mexico experiences earthquakes, though most are small and not widely felt. The state has active fault systems, particularly along the Rio Grande Rift, which runs through the center of the state. The USGS records numerous minor earthquakes each year, and moderate quakes have caused damage in the past, such as the 1906 Socorro earthquake.

Is earthquake insurance worth it in New Mexico?

Whether earthquake insurance is worth it depends on your location, home construction, and financial situation. In higher-risk areas like the Rio Grande Rift corridor, it may be a worthwhile investment. Standard homeowners policies do not cover earthquake damage, so if you want protection, you'll need a separate policy or endorsement. Compare costs and deductibles, and consider your ability to pay for repairs out-of-pocket.

What should I do during an earthquake in New Mexico?

During an earthquake, Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Get down on your hands and knees, cover your head and neck with your arms, and hold on to something sturdy. If you are indoors, stay there until shaking stops. If outdoors, move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires. After shaking stops, check for injuries and damage, and be prepared for aftershocks. Follow guidance from the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and local authorities.

Official resources

• New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
• Ready.gov – Earthquakes
• FEMA Earthquake Safety