State emergency officials are urging residents to strengthen their disaster plans as part of National Earthquake Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of 72-hour emergency kits, battery-powered radios, and extra batteries for reliable updates during a major event.
The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management says earthquakes remain a real and ongoing hazard across the state, particularly in northeast Arkansas near the New Madrid Seismic Zone — one of the most active seismic regions in the United States. The fault system stretches across Arkansas and several neighboring states and produces hundreds of measurable earthquakes each year, most too small to be felt.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the New Madrid region generated a series of powerful earthquakes in 1811 and 1812 that rank among the strongest ever recorded east of the Rocky Mountains. Scientists say there is a meaningful probability of a magnitude 6.0 or greater earthquake occurring in the region within the next 50 years.
Emergency planners warn that a large quake today could lead to widespread ground shaking, infrastructure damage, power outages, and transportation disruptions affecting much of Arkansas — even outside the immediate fault zone.
Preparedness recommendations include securing heavy furniture and appliances, identifying safe shelter locations inside each room, and practicing the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” safety method. Households are encouraged to maintain at least a 72-hour supply of food, water, medications, first aid materials, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio with spare batteries.
Officials note that when cell and internet service fail, local broadcast radio often remains one of the most dependable sources for emergency instructions and official updates. Residents are encouraged to monitor their local ArkansasRadio.com stations during severe emergencies.
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