Tennessee Residents Urged to Prepare for Earthquake Risks

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency reminds residents about the risks of earthquakes, particularly due to the state’s location on two seismic zones: the New Madrid Seismic Zone and the East Tennessee Seismic Zone. Residents are encouraged to secure items, improve structural integrity, and consider earthquake insurance.

Tennessee residents are reminded of the importance of earthquake preparedness, especially those new to the state, as it is situated on two significant seismic zones. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is issuing this warning during Earthquake Awareness Month. While earthquakes are not a common occurrence, those that do happen can have severe consequences.

Tennessee lies on two major seismic zones: the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ), which is well-known and extends from Arkansas along the Tennessee and Missouri borders, and the less publicized East Tennessee Seismic Zone (ETSZ), located near the state’s eastern boundary. The ETSZ is recognized for its frequent small earthquakes and is considered one of the most active seismic regions in the eastern United States. According to a 2018 Hazard Mitigation report by TEMA, earthquakes of magnitude 5.5 or more pose potential threats to the state.

In conclusion, residents of Tennessee are urged to take proactive measures to prepare for potential earthquakes. This includes securing heavy objects, making structural improvements, and considering earthquake insurance. Given the seismic risks present in both the New Madrid and East Tennessee zones, community awareness and preparedness are paramount.

Original Source: fox17.com