Recent earthquakes near Memphis
Memphis sits near the New Madrid Seismic Zone, the most active earthquake source in the central United States, whose faults lie beneath the Mississippi Valley just to the northwest. The region's soft river sediments would amplify shaking. The 1811-1812 New Madrid earthquakes, estimated at magnitude 7 to 7.5, remain the benchmark for the city's hazard. In the past 24 hours, Memphis has recorded no earthquakes above the reporting threshold.
Counts include M2.5+ events — the smallest size USGS reports consistently worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Memphis at risk of an earthquake?
Yes. Memphis lies close to the New Madrid Seismic Zone, which produced very large earthquakes in 1811-1812. The area's soft sediments would amplify shaking, and many older buildings were not designed for strong earthquakes.
Why does Memphis have earthquake risk far from any plate boundary?
The New Madrid zone is an intraplate fault system within an ancient buried rift, deep inside the North American Plate. Though far from any plate edge, its faults remain stressed and capable of large, damaging earthquakes.
When was the last big earthquake near Memphis?
The most recent great earthquakes were the 1811-1812 New Madrid sequence, before Memphis was a major city. The zone still produces frequent small earthquakes, and scientists regard a future large event as a significant regional risk.
Nearby regions
Live data from the USGS earthquake feeds. Magnitudes and depths are automated readings and may be revised. Not for emergency use.