Earthquake Preparedness Calculator
Check your ZIP code's seismic risk score, expected earthquake losses, structural vulnerability, and get preparedness recommendations.
- FEMA seismic risk score and rating for your county
- Expected annual earthquake losses and event frequency
- Structural vulnerability assessment with retrofit and preparedness guidance
How This Calculator Works
- Enter your ZIP code — we look up FEMA National Risk Index earthquake data for your county.
- Review seismic risk — see your earthquake risk score, expected annual losses, and frequency of damaging events.
- Assess structural vulnerability — older homes in high-risk zones face greater earthquake damage potential.
- Get preparedness steps — emergency kit recommendations, structural retrofit guidance, and safety tips.
FEMA Earthquake Risk Ratings Explained
| Rating | Risk Score Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Very High | 30+ | Highest seismic hazard — major fault zones (San Andreas, Cascadia) |
| Relatively High | 20 - 30 | Significant earthquake risk — frequent seismic activity |
| Relatively Moderate | 10 - 20 | Moderate risk — occasional seismic events possible |
| Relatively Low | 5 - 10 | Lower risk, but earthquakes can still occur |
| Very Low | Below 5 | Minimal historical seismic activity |
Why Earthquake Preparedness Matters
The United States has significant earthquake risk across multiple regions. While California and the Pacific Northwest are well known, the New Madrid Seismic Zone (Missouri, Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky) and the Wasatch Front (Utah) are often overlooked high-risk areas.
FEMA estimates that earthquakes cause an average of $6.1 billion in losses annually in the U.S. Most earthquake damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance — separate earthquake insurance is required.
Simple preparedness steps (securing furniture, maintaining an emergency kit, knowing your shutoff valves) significantly reduce injury risk and property damage.
Check real-time seismic activity and recent earthquakes near you.
USGS Earthquake Map →The USGS maintains real-time earthquake monitoring for the United States and worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is earthquake risk calculated for my ZIP code?
Your earthquake risk score comes from the FEMA National Risk Index, which combines USGS seismic hazard data, historical earthquake frequency, expected building damage, and population exposure for your county. Scores range from 0 to 50, with higher values indicating greater seismic hazard.
What does the earthquake risk score mean?
The score reflects the relative earthquake hazard compared to all U.S. counties. A score above 30 (Very High) means your area is in or near a major fault zone like the San Andreas or Cascadia Subduction Zone. Scores below 5 (Very Low) indicate minimal historical seismic activity, though no area is completely immune to earthquakes.
Should I buy earthquake insurance?
Standard homeowners insurance does not cover earthquake damage. FEMA and the California Earthquake Authority recommend earthquake insurance for anyone in a moderate-to-high risk zone (score above 10). Even in lower-risk areas, a single event can cause catastrophic damage. Average annual premiums range from $800 to $5,000 depending on location and coverage.
How do I earthquake-proof my home?
Key steps include bolting your home to its foundation (cripple wall bracing), securing water heaters and heavy furniture to wall studs, installing flexible gas line connections, and reinforcing unreinforced masonry chimneys. FEMA recommends a professional structural assessment for homes built before 1980, as older construction often lacks seismic design standards.
What is the difference between magnitude and intensity?
Magnitude (measured on the Richter or moment magnitude scale) quantifies the total energy released by an earthquake at its source. Intensity (measured on the Modified Mercalli scale, I-XII) describes the shaking felt at a specific location. A magnitude 6.0 earthquake may produce intensity VIII near the epicenter but only intensity III at 200 miles away.
Data Sources & Methodology
Data Sources
- FEMA National Risk Index — County-level seismic hazard scores, expected losses, and event frequency
- USGS Earthquake Hazards Program — Historical seismic events and hazard mapping
- U.S. Census ACS — Median home age for structural vulnerability assessment
Methodology
Risk scores come from the FEMA National Risk Index, which combines USGS seismic hazard data with building exposure, population density, and community resilience. Expected annual loss figures are county-level Hazus model projections. Structural vulnerability factors in median home age — homes built before 1980 often lack modern seismic design standards.