Earthquakes risk in New York

Earthquake Risk in New York: What You Need to Know

New York is not typically the first state that comes to mind when thinking about earthquakes, but the state does experience seismic activity. According to the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program, New York has a moderate level of earthquake hazard, rated 2 out of 5 on the HomeRiskMap scale. The most seismically active areas are the southeastern part of the state, including the New York City metropolitan area, the lower Hudson Valley, and Long Island, due to the presence of the Ramapo Fault system. The Adirondack Mountains in northern New York also experience occasional earthquakes. While major, damaging earthquakes are rare, smaller events occur more frequently and can still cause property damage.

Earthquakes in New York can happen at any time of year—there is no 'earthquake season.' The risk is not evenly distributed: communities near known fault lines, particularly in the downstate region, face a higher likelihood of experiencing shaking. The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) notes that while the state's earthquake risk is lower than that of California or Alaska, it is not zero. The 2011 magnitude 5.8 Virginia earthquake, for example, was felt throughout New York, reminding residents that distant events can also affect the state. The USGS provides detailed hazard maps that show which areas are most exposed.

How Earthquakes Affect Homes in New York

Most earthquake damage to homes in New York comes from ground shaking, which can crack foundations, shift walls, and cause chimneys to collapse. Older homes, especially those with unreinforced masonry, are particularly vulnerable. Even moderate earthquakes can cause items to fall from shelves, break windows, and disrupt utilities. In some cases, soil conditions such as soft sediments in river valleys or reclaimed land can amplify shaking, increasing damage potential.

Standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover earthquake damage. In New York, earthquake coverage is not required by law, but it can be purchased as a separate policy or as an endorsement to an existing policy. The FEMA Earthquake Safety page advises homeowners to review their insurance coverage and consider whether earthquake insurance makes sense for their situation. Renters can also purchase earthquake insurance for personal belongings. It's important to note that damage from earthquakes is excluded from most standard policies, so without specific coverage, repairs would come out of pocket.

How to Prepare Your Home for an Earthquake

While you can't prevent an earthquake, you can reduce the risk of injury and property damage by taking steps before the ground shakes. The Ready.gov earthquake guidance recommends the following actions:

• Secure heavy furniture and appliances. Anchor bookcases, tall cabinets, and televisions to wall studs. Use straps or brackets to secure water heaters and large appliances.
• Retrofit your home's structure. If you live in an older home, consider having a licensed contractor evaluate whether your foundation and walls need bolting or bracing. This is especially important for homes with unreinforced masonry chimneys.
• Know how to shut off utilities. Learn how to turn off natural gas and water at the main valves. Doing so after an earthquake can prevent fires and water damage. Keep a wrench near the gas meter.
• Store breakables and hazardous items safely. Place heavy items on lower shelves. Use latches on cabinet doors to keep items from falling out. Secure or remove objects above beds and seating areas.
• Create an emergency kit. Include water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, first-aid supplies, and medications. Ready.gov offers a full list of recommended supplies.
• Practice 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On.' During an earthquake, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck with your arms, and hold on to sturdy furniture. If you are outdoors, move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.
• Consider a seismic retrofit. For homes in higher-risk areas, a professional can install foundation anchor bolts, cripple wall bracing, and other reinforcements to help the structure withstand shaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does New York get earthquakes?

Yes, New York experiences earthquakes, though they are generally smaller and less frequent than in western states. The USGS records dozens of minor earthquakes in and around New York each year, most of which are too small to be felt. However, moderate earthquakes that cause damage are possible, particularly in the southeastern part of the state and the Adirondack region. The USGS Earthquake Hazards Program provides current information and historical data on earthquakes in New York.

Is earthquake insurance required in New York?

No, earthquake insurance is not required by New York law. However, standard homeowners insurance policies typically exclude earthquake damage, so if you want coverage, you will need to purchase a separate earthquake policy or add an endorsement to your existing policy. The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services recommends that homeowners review their insurance needs and consider their risk level. Contact your insurance agent to discuss options.

What should I do during an earthquake in New York?

During an earthquake, follow the 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On' protocol recommended by Ready.gov. Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck with your arms, and hold on to a sturdy piece of furniture. If you are indoors, stay there until the shaking stops. If you are outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines. Do not run outside during the shaking, as most injuries occur when people try to move. After the earthquake, check for injuries and damage, and be prepared for aftershocks.

Official Resources

• New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
• USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
• Ready.gov – Earthquakes
• FEMA Earthquake Safety