Earthquakes Risk in Ohio — Level 2 of 5

Q: What should I do if an earthquake starts?

The most important thing is to drop, cover, and hold on. Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. If you are inside, stay inside; if you are outside, move to an open area away from buildings and utility wires. Being prepared and practicing these steps helps you react calmly.

Ohio has a relatively low risk of damaging earthquakes, rated Level 2 out of 5. Most seismic activity is minor and scattered, primarily in western and southern parts of the state. While a major quake is unlikely, homeowners should still take basic preparedness measures.

Earthquake Risk in Ohio: Geography and Characteristics

Ohio is located in the central United States, far from the major plate boundaries that cause large earthquakes in California and the Pacific Northwest. However, the state is not immune to seismic activity. The USGS Earthquake Hazards Program classifies Ohio as having a low to moderate seismic hazard, and this is reflected in HomeRiskMap's Level 2 (out of 5) rating. Most earthquakes in Ohio are small and cause little to no damage.

Seismically, Ohio contains several known fault zones. The most active is the Anna Seismic Zone in Shelby County in the western part of the state, where small tremors have been recorded for decades. Another area of occasional activity runs along the Ohio River and into the southern counties. Despite these zones, the probability of a moderate or large earthquake in Ohio is low. Unlike hurricanes or tornadoes, earthquakes do not have a season; they can strike at any time, day or night.

Because the bedrock across much of Ohio is old and stable, seismic waves from distant large earthquakes, such as those in the New Madrid Seismic Zone along the Missouri-Tennessee border, can sometimes be felt in the state. However, these events rarely cause damage in Ohio.

How Earthquakes Affect Homes in Ohio

Even a relatively small earthquake can affect a home, especially if it is older or not built to modern seismic standards. The most common types of damage in Ohio include:

Cracks in plaster and drywall
Damaged chimneys and loose bricks
Shifting or cracking of foundations and basement floors
Toppled furniture and broken glassware
Malfunctioning gas lines or water heaters

Older masonry buildings and homes with unreinforced brick foundations are at greater risk. In general, homes built after 2000 are more likely to meet modern building codes that provide some resistance to shaking, but code enforcement varies by locality.

When it comes to insurance, it is critical to know that standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover earthquake damage. To be protected, you need to purchase a separate earthquake endorsement or a standalone policy. This additional coverage is not expensive in Ohio because the risk is low, but it is not automatically included. The FEMA Earthquake Safety page reminds homeowners to review their policies and ask their insurers about earthquake coverage.

How to Prepare Your Home

Preparing for an earthquake is about reducing hazards and being ready for disruptions. Follow these practical steps from Ready.gov and the Ohio Emergency Management Agency:

Secure tall and heavy furniture, such as bookcases and entertainment centers, to wall studs using brackets or straps.
Install latches on kitchen cabinets to prevent doors from swinging open during shaking.
Anchor water heaters and other heavy appliances with flexible straps to prevent them from tipping and breaking gas or water lines.
Store breakable items on low shelves and secure heavy picture frames or mirrors away from beds and seating areas.
Learn where and how to shut off your natural gas, water, and electricity. Keep a wrench near the shutoff valve.
Keep a fire extinguisher in an accessible location and know how to use it.
Create an emergency kit with bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents. Review and refresh it every six months.
Have a family communication plan and practice what to do during an earthquake: drop, cover, and hold on.
For older homes, consider hiring a licensed contractor to inspect the foundation and chimney, and make retrofits if needed.

These steps are inexpensive and can significantly reduce the risk of injury and property damage during a seismic event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can earthquakes happen in Ohio?

Yes. Ohio experiences small earthquakes on a regular basis, mostly in the western and southern parts of the state. Although they are rarely strong enough to cause damage, the seismic hazard is real. The USGS continuously monitors seismic activity in the region.

Is earthquake insurance worth it in Ohio?

Because the risk of a damaging event is low, earthquake insurance is relatively inexpensive. Whether it is worth it depends on your home's age, construction, and your financial comfort with repair costs. If you have a masonry chimney or an older foundation, the added coverage may be a worthwhile investment. Check with your insurance agent to get a quote.

What should I do if an earthquake starts?

The most important thing is to drop, cover, and hold on. Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. If you are inside, stay inside; if you are outside, move to an open area away from buildings and utility wires. Being prepared and practicing these steps helps you react calmly.

Official Resources

For more detailed information about earthquake risk in Ohio, preparedness, and hazard mapping, refer to the following official agencies:

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.