Earthquakes risk in Rhode Island

Earthquake risk in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is not located near a plate boundary like California or Alaska, so large, frequent earthquakes are not part of everyday life here. Even so, the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program notes that earthquakes can and do occur in the eastern United States, including New England. The region has ancient faults left over from past mountain-building and continental rifting. Most earthquakes in and around Rhode Island are small and may only be felt as a brief rumble, but moderate events centered elsewhere in New England or eastern Canada can shake Rhode Island.

Unlike hurricanes or nor'easters, earthquakes have no season. They can happen at any time of year, day or night. The entire state is small enough that a significant regional earthquake could be felt statewide, but the shaking a particular home experiences depends on local geology and construction. Soft soils, glacial sediments, and filled land—common in parts of Providence, along Narragansett Bay, and in other low-lying areas—can amplify ground shaking. Bedrock and higher ground may shake less. Older homes, especially those with unreinforced brick or stone chimneys and foundations, may be more vulnerable.

The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) works with local, state, and federal partners to prepare for and respond to earthquakes and other hazards. Because Rhode Island's risk is lower than in high-hazard states, the goal is not alarm but awareness: know what to do, reduce easy vulnerabilities, and have a plan.

How it affects homes

Most earthquake damage in Rhode Island would likely come from shaking, not ground rupture. Even moderate shaking can crack plaster and drywall, break windows, and send unsecured objects flying. Common problems include:

• Chimney damage: Brick, stone, or block chimneys can crack, lean, or collapse, creating a falling hazard and a possible fire risk.
• Foundation and sill plate issues: Older wood-frame homes may not be bolted to their foundations. Shaking can shift the house, crack foundation walls, or cause floors to become uneven.
• Porches, steps, and masonry: Unreinforced brick or stone veneer, porch piers, and heavy steps can separate or topple.
• Water heater and fuel tank movement: Unstrapped water heaters can tip, breaking gas or water lines. Fuel tanks can slide or rupture.
• Contents damage: Televisions, bookcases, mirrors, dishes, and water pipes can fall or break, causing injury and costly cleanup.

Standard homeowners insurance policies usually do not cover earthquake damage. Coverage is often available as a separate policy or an endorsement, and it may have a percentage deductible. If you own a home in Rhode Island, review your policy and ask your insurer how earthquake damage would be handled. Federal disaster assistance may be available after a presidentially declared disaster, but it is not a substitute for insurance and is not guaranteed. For general guidance, see Ready.gov – Earthquakes and FEMA Earthquake Safety.

How to prepare your home

You do not need to retrofit your home to California standards to make a difference. The following steps, many of which are low-cost, can reduce damage and injury risk. For major structural work, consult a licensed contractor or structural engineer familiar with seismic retrofitting.

• Secure your water heater. Use two metal straps or a specialty kit to anchor the water heater to wall studs. Also secure fuel tanks and propane cylinders.
• Brace or reinforce chimneys. Have a professional evaluate older brick or stone chimneys. Options include bracing, rebuilding with reinforcement, or removing an unused chimney.
• Anchor the house to its foundation. If your home is not bolted, a contractor can install anchor bolts and plates. In homes with cripple walls, plywood sheathing can strengthen the crawl space.
• Secure large furniture and appliances. Strap bookcases, dressers, televisions, and mirrors to wall studs. Use closed hooks or museum putty for hanging items.
• Install cabinet latches. Childproof or earthquake latches can keep dishes and glassware from spilling out.
• Know how to shut off gas and water. Teach household members where the shut-off valves are and keep a wrench nearby. Only shut off gas if you smell or hear a leak.
• Create an emergency kit. Include water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, medications, and copies of important documents.
• Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On. During shaking, drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until shaking stops. If no shelter is nearby, drop and cover your head and neck with your arms.
• Make a family plan. Choose a meeting place and an out-of-state contact. Plan for pets and people with mobility or medical needs.

RIEMA and local emergency management offices provide preparedness information for Rhode Island residents. Start with the simple steps and consider a professional assessment for structural vulnerabilities.

Frequently asked questions

Does Rhode Island actually get earthquakes?

Yes. Small earthquakes occur in and around New England from time to time, and larger regional earthquakes centered in New England or eastern Canada can be felt in Rhode Island. The state is not in a high-hazard seismic zone like California, but the risk is not zero. USGS monitoring and research help track and understand these events.

Is earthquake insurance required in Rhode Island?

No. Rhode Island does not require homeowners to carry earthquake insurance. However, standard homeowners policies typically exclude earthquake damage, so coverage must usually be purchased separately or added as an endorsement. Check with your insurance agent to understand your options and deductibles.

What should I do during an earthquake in Rhode Island?

Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Get low, protect your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. If you are indoors, stay indoors; if you are outdoors, move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires. After shaking stops, check for injuries and damage, avoid damaged areas, and follow instructions from local officials.

Official resources

• Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA)
• USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
• Ready.gov – Earthquakes
• FEMA Earthquake Safety