Earthquakes Near Memphis Today
Live answer from USGS data — every earthquake within 150 km (93 mi) of Memphis, Tennessee.
Checking live USGS data near Memphis…
Why Memphis gets earthquakes
Memphis sits at the southern end of the New Madrid Seismic Zone, the most active earthquake area in the US east of the Rockies. In the winter of 1811–12, it produced at least three quakes estimated at M7.0–7.7 that rang church bells on the East Coast, changed the course of the Mississippi River, and created Reelfoot Lake.
The zone still produces around 200 small quakes a year. Scientists estimate roughly a 25–40% chance of an M6+ within 50 years — a serious concern for Memphis, where river-deposited soils are prone to liquefaction and much of the older building stock predates seismic codes.
Memphis earthquake FAQ
▸Did Memphis just have an earthquake?
The live panel at the top of this page checks the USGS catalog for every earthquake within 150 km of Memphis and answers in one line. Keep in mind USGS data lags real shaking by roughly 2–3 minutes in California and up to ~8 minutes in other regions — if you felt something seconds ago, refresh shortly.
▸What faults cause earthquakes near Memphis?
The New Madrid Seismic Zone begins just northwest of Memphis, with the Reelfoot fault as its best-known structure. It produced the huge 1811–12 quake sequence and still generates about 200 small quakes a year, many felt in the city.
▸What magnitude earthquake can you feel in Memphis, TN?
Close to the epicenter, people typically begin to feel earthquakes around magnitude 2.5–3.0. An M4+ is felt across a wide area and rattles objects; M5+ can damage buildings near the epicenter. Shallow quakes feel stronger than deep ones of the same magnitude, and soft soils amplify shaking.
▸What should I do if I feel an earthquake in Memphis?
Drop, Cover, and Hold On — get low, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until shaking stops. Afterward, check for hazards like gas leaks, and expect possible aftershocks. If you're in a coastal area and the shaking is strong or lasts a long time, move inland or to high ground. Official guidance: ready.gov/earthquakes.