housands of Arkansans are preparing to take part in International ShakeOut Day on Thursday, October 15, as communities around the world practice what to do when an earthquake strikes.
The statewide drill will take place at 10:15 AM and will focus on the recommended earthquake safety response: Drop, Cover and Hold On.
The annual event is designed to help families, schools, businesses and organizations prepare for earthquakes and understand how to respond quickly and safely during strong shaking.
More than 29,000 Arkansans have already registered to participate this year. Organizers say Arkansas participants will join approximately 1.4 million people across the Central United States and more than 50.3 million participants worldwide.
Emergency officials are encouraging participants to use the drill as an opportunity to review emergency plans, inspect emergency supply kits and secure furniture, televisions, shelving and other objects that could fall and cause injuries during an earthquake.
Arkansas has experienced a number of earthquakes during 2026, including seismic activity associated with the New Madrid Seismic Zone.
Officials say the New Madrid system has the potential to produce a major earthquake that could significantly impact communities across Eastern and Central Arkansas.
Residents are encouraged to have an emergency plan in place before an earthquake occurs and make sure everyone in the household knows what to do.
During an earthquake, officials recommend:
DROP to your hands and knees.
COVER your head and neck beneath a sturdy table or desk when possible.
HOLD ON to your shelter until the shaking stops.
International ShakeOut Day is free and open to individuals, families, schools, businesses, government agencies and other organizations.
Participants can register at:
https://www.shakeout.org/register/
Additional earthquake preparedness information is available at:
https://www.earthquakecountry.org/step5/
More information about earthquakes in Arkansas is available through the Arkansas Office of the State Geologist at:
https://www.geology.arkansas.gov/geohazards/earthquakes-in-arkansas.html
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