According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), earthquake prediction in the Midwestern States during the next 50 years is a 25-40% probability of having an earthquake magnitude of 6.0 or greater generated from the New Madrid Fault in Southeastern Missouri. A New Madrid Earthquake of magnitude 7.0-8.0 similar to any of the three large earthquakes of 1811-1812 has a 7-10% probability of occurrence.

The United States Geological Survey predicts that California has a 99.7% probability of having an earthquake magnitude of 6.7 during the next 30 years. Natural disasters such as the 2010 Haiti Earthquake and the 2011 Japan Earthquake are wake-up calls for Californians to develop an earthquake disaster management plan to ensure home safety through seismic retrofit and risk mitigation of home contents, while re-considering earthquake insurance. Earthquake preparedness also requires basic knowledge on the factors influencing earthquake damage to your home.

Earthquakes strike without warning. However, if you live in an area of the country, such as California, where earthquakes are common, you should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a few days after an earthquake disaster strikes. Learn what you need to have in your emergency earthquake pack in this easy article on how to be prepared for an earthquake.