Earthquakes
Mid-South Earthquake Awareness Oct. 11–17: Tennessee M1.8 Quake Highlights New Madrid Risk
TIPTONVILLE, Tenn. — A small earthquake beneath northwestern Tennessee early Sunday offered a timely reminder of the Mid South's seismic hazards, just days before millions prepare for the Great ShakeO
By Nolan Pierce · 2026-10-12T00:09:42.634Z
TIPTONVILLE, Tenn. — A small earthquake beneath northwestern Tennessee early Sunday offered a timely reminder of the Mid South's seismic hazards, just days before millions prepare for the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill.
A magnitude 1.8 earthquake struck approximately 3 miles north of Tiptonville at 3:38 a.m. CDT Sunday, Oct. 11, according to seismic monitoring data. The earthquake originated roughly 4 miles underground, within the New Madrid Seismic Zone.
Although minor, the tremor arrived as Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky and neighboring states prepare for the Great Central U.S. ShakeOut on Thursday, Oct. 15.
The annual earthquake preparedness exercise begins at 10:15 a.m. local time, encouraging residents, schools and businesses to practice protective actions before a potentially damaging earthquake occurs.
The Mid South faces an earthquake hazard that extends far beyond California's better known fault systems.
The New Madrid Seismic Zone stretches through northwestern Tennessee, northeastern Arkansas, southeastern Missouri and southwestern Kentucky. It remains one of the country's most active earthquake regions east of the Rocky Mountains.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, three powerful earthquakes struck the region during 1811 and 1812, with estimated magnitudes between 7 and 8. The earthquakes altered landscapes, caused extensive ground failures and sent shaking across much of the eastern United States.
Scientists continue recording smaller earthquakes throughout the zone. Sunday's magnitude 1.8 event does not indicate a larger earthquake is imminent, but it illustrates the area's continuing seismic activity.
The University of Memphis will participate in Thursday's drill, with its Center for Earthquake Research and Information offering demonstrations and educational activities.
Emergency officials recommend residents practice dropping to their hands and knees, covering their heads and necks, and holding onto sturdy shelter until shaking stops.
For communities across the Mid South, the Oct. 11–17 period offers an opportunity to review emergency plans, secure heavy furniture and understand the region's earthquake exposure.
Unlike approaching storms, earthquakes can strike without warning. Preparation remains the strongest defense.