Earthquakes Risk in North Dakota — Level 1 of 5

North Dakota has one of the lowest earthquake hazards in the United States, rated level 1 of 5. While earthquakes are rare and usually too small to feel, they can occur, especially in the western oil-producing area. Homeowners can take simple, low-cost steps to reduce the already minimal risk.

Earthquake Risk in North Dakota: A Very Low Hazard

North Dakota is located far from major fault lines, making it one of the least seismically active states in the country. According to the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program, the state sits in a region with very low earthquake hazard, rated level 1 of 5 on the National Risk Index. This means that the chance of a damaging earthquake in North Dakota is extremely small.

Earthquakes in North Dakota are uncommon, and most recorded events are too small to be felt by residents. The state has no earthquake seasons; tremors can occur at any time of year, but they are not linked to weather or climate. The most notable seismic activity in recent years has been reported in the western part of the state, primarily in areas associated with oil and gas extraction. Some of these events are thought to be induced by wastewater injection, but they have generally been minor and have not posed a serious threat to public safety.

Although the risk is low, it is not zero. The North Dakota Department of Emergency Services encourages residents to be informed and prepared for all types of emergencies, including the rare possibility of an earthquake. Because the hazard is so low, earthquakes should not be a top concern for most North Dakotans, but understanding the basics can still help protect your family and property.

How It Affects Homes

In North Dakota, the typical home is unlikely to experience significant structural damage from an earthquake. The ground shaking from a small, local quake is usually no worse than the vibrations from a passing train or a heavy truck. However, even minor shaking can cause items inside a home to shift or fall, such as books, dishes, or tall furniture. In rare cases of a stronger earthquake, older homes with unreinforced masonry chimneys or foundations might develop cracks.

Because the earthquake risk is so low, most homeowners in North Dakota do not need earthquake insurance. Standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover earthquake damage, but you can often add a separate earthquake endorsement. In a state with a level 1 hazard rating, this extra coverage is usually not worth the cost. Instead, focus on protecting your home from more common North Dakota hazards like severe storms, flooding, and winter weather.

If you are buying a home in North Dakota, the risk of earthquake damage is rarely a deciding factor. Lenders are unlikely to require earthquake insurance, and home inspections typically do not include seismic assessments. Still, for peace of mind, you can research the USGS earthquake hazard map for your specific county and consult with your insurance provider about your options.

How to Prepare Your Home

Even in a low-risk state, taking simple preparedness steps can reduce the chance of injury or damage during any shaking event. Here are practical actions you can take in your North Dakota home:

Secure tall furniture, like bookshelves and armoires, to wall studs using brackets or straps.
Anchor your water heater to the wall to prevent it from tipping over, which could cause a gas leak.
Install latches on kitchen cabinets to keep dishes and glassware from falling out during shaking.
Know how to turn off your gas and water shut-off valves in an emergency.
Keep a basic emergency kit with water, food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit, as recommended by Ready.gov.
If you have an older home, consider having a professional evaluate your foundation and chimney for stability.
Practice “drop, cover, and hold on” with your family so everyone knows what to do if the ground shakes.
Safely stock heavier items on lower shelves to minimize the risk of falling objects.

Remember that because earthquake risk is so low, you should prioritize these steps alongside, not in place of, preparations for more common local disasters. The FEMA earthquake safety guidance offers general advice that applies to all regions, but in North Dakota, your time and money are better spent on winter storm or flood preparedness first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does North Dakota get earthquakes?

Yes, but they are rare and generally very small. The USGS has recorded minor earthquakes in North Dakota, mostly in the western part of the state. Most are too weak to be felt by residents, and none in recent history have caused significant damage.

What caused earthquakes in western North Dakota?

Some earthquakes in western North Dakota may be naturally occurring, while others may be induced by oil and gas activities, such as wastewater disposal. The USGS monitors these events, and they have generally remained minor. The state’s overall hazard is still rated very low.

Do I need earthquake insurance in North Dakota?

For most homeowners in North Dakota, earthquake insurance is not necessary because the risk of damage is so low. Standard homeowners policies do not cover earthquakes, but you can add a separate policy if you want extra peace of mind. Given the level 1 hazard rating, this is usually not a worthwhile expense.

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.