New Madrid Seismic Zone

Abstract

The New Madrid Seismic Zone is one of the most potentially dangerous natural hazards that exists anywhere in the continental United States. Having produced three of the greatest earthquakes known to man over a 60-day period during the winter of 1811-1812, its destructive potential is real. Though general knowledge of this seismic zone is increasing, it is still not well founded. The possibility of a near term major earthquake holds serious implications for the nation. When it occurs, it will have a significant impact upon the military. This paper reviews the history of the New Madrid Seismic Zone, explains likely effects of a major earthquake and the anticipated levels of damage and disruption that would result, and covers the latest available scientific analysis for the likelihood of a recurrence of a major event. Finally, the paper reviews the current status of DOD planning for the response and recovery roles of various military organizations.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 22, 1998
Accession Number
ADA345624

Entities

People

  • J. D. Norwood

Organizations

  • United States Army War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Department Of Defense
  • Department Of Homeland Security
  • Disasters
  • Emergency Response
  • Flood Control
  • Floods
  • Geography
  • Governments
  • Groundwater
  • Health Care Facilities
  • Health Services
  • Local Governments
  • Mississippi River
  • National Governments
  • Natural Gas
  • United States
  • War Colleges

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Emergency Management and Homeland Security.
  • Seismology
  • Systems Analysis and Design