Earthquakes Risk in New York — Level 2 of 5

New York has a low but real earthquake risk, rated level 2 of 5 in the National Risk Index. The state experiences occasional small to moderate quakes, with slightly higher activity in the Adirondacks and New York City area. Homeowners can take simple steps to strengthen their homes and should review earthquake insurance coverage.

Earthquake Risk in New York: A Closer Look

New York is not usually associated with earthquakes, but the state does experience them. According to the National Risk Index from FEMA, New York has an overall earthquake risk rating of level 2 out of 5, meaning a relatively low but not zero threat. The USGS Earthquake Hazards Program maps show that small to moderate earthquakes have occurred across the state, with somewhat higher hazard zones in the Adirondack Mountains, the New York City metropolitan area, and parts of western New York.

Because New York sits on the North American Plate, far from plate boundaries, most quakes are minor and go unnoticed. However, occasional tremors can shake homes and be felt by residents. There is no specific earthquake season: seismic activity can happen at any time of day, any time of year. The state's history includes several memorable earthquakes, such as the 1884 Brooklyn quake and the 2002 Au Sable Forks event in the Adirondacks, both of which caused minor damage. The key takeaway is that while major earthquakes are unlikely, they are not impossible.

How Earthquakes Affect Homes in New York

Even small earthquakes can have visible impacts on houses. The shaking can cause foundation cracks, toppled chimneys, damaged brick veneers, broken windows, and fallen objects inside. In a stronger event, unsecured water heaters can tip over and start fires, and homes not bolted to their foundations can shift. Older homes, especially those built before modern seismic codes, are more vulnerable to structural damage.

It's important to understand how earthquake damage is treated by insurance. A standard homeowners insurance policy in New York does not cover earthquake damage. To be protected, you need either a separate earthquake insurance policy or an added endorsement (rider) to your existing policy. The cost is relatively low because of the reduced risk, but it may be worth considering if you live in a higher-risk area like the Adirondacks or near New York City. At minimum, talk to your insurance agent about your options.

How to Prepare Your Home for an Earthquake

Making your home earthquake-ready doesn't have to be expensive. Here are practical steps, based on guidance from Ready.gov and FEMA, that you can take to reduce risk to your property and family:

Secure heavy furniture. Anchor bookcases, cabinets, tall dressers, and shelving units to wall studs using brackets or straps so they don't topple during shaking.
Strap your water heater. Use metal straps to attach the water heater to wall studs to prevent it from falling and causing a gas leak or water damage.
Install cabinet latches. Use childproof or earthquake latches on kitchen and bathroom cabinets to keep dishes and glassware from crashing out.
Check your foundation. If your home has a crawl space, ensure the cripple walls are braced and the house is bolted to the foundation. This is a larger retrofit, but it's the most important upgrade for older homes.
Know how to shut off gas and water. Keep a wrench near the gas meter and teach family members where the shutoff valves are. If you smell gas after an earthquake, shut off the gas and call authorities.
Store emergency supplies. Keep a well-stocked emergency kit with water, food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit in an accessible place.
Practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." During an earthquake, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table, and hold on until the shaking stops. Do not run outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York at risk of a big earthquake?

While New York is in a low-hazard zone, large earthquakes are possible. The USGS notes that the state has a long history of small to moderate earthquakes, including some magnitude 5 events in the past. The Adirondacks and the New York City area show slightly elevated seismic activity. However, the probability of a very large, destructive earthquake is much lower than in places like California or Alaska.

Does homeowners insurance cover earthquake damage in New York?

No, standard homeowners insurance policies in New York do not cover earthquake damage. You would need to purchase a separate earthquake policy or an endorsement to your current policy. The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and FEMA both recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and consider your risks.

What should I do during an earthquake if I'm at home?

If you feel shaking, immediately drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. Stay away from windows, tall furniture, and anything that could fall. Do not try to leave the building during the shaking. Once it stops, check for injuries and damage, and be prepared for aftershocks.

Official Resources

Last updated: August 12, 2026. Risk levels are state-wide estimates based on public hazard data — always verify your specific address with the official sources above.