Recent earthquakes in Tennessee
Tennessee lies between two active earthquake zones: the New Madrid Seismic Zone in the far west and the East Tennessee Seismic Zone, one of the most active in the eastern United States, running through the state's east. Both are intraplate zones deep within the North American Plate. Most earthquakes are small, but the New Madrid zone is capable of large, damaging events. In the past 24 hours, Tennessee has recorded no earthquakes above the reporting threshold.
Counts include M2.5+ events — the smallest size USGS reports consistently worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Tennessee have earthquakes?
Tennessee spans two intraplate seismic zones. The New Madrid Seismic Zone in the west can produce large earthquakes, while the East Tennessee Seismic Zone generates frequent small ones. Both lie deep within the stable interior of the continent.
What is the East Tennessee Seismic Zone?
The East Tennessee Seismic Zone is a band of earthquake activity running through eastern Tennessee, among the most active in the eastern United States by frequency. Its earthquakes are usually small, and its faults are buried beneath sedimentary rock.
Has Tennessee had a big earthquake?
Tennessee's largest hazard comes from the New Madrid zone, which produced the great 1811-1812 earthquakes felt strongly across the state's west. Memphis, in southwestern Tennessee, is the city most exposed to that source.
Nearby regions
Live data from the USGS earthquake feeds. Magnitudes and depths are automated readings and may be revised. Not for emergency use.