States at Risk: US States without an Early Earthquake Warning System – EEW

The United States faces a significant risk for earthquakes, due to its geological characteristics and tectonic activity. The country is situated along several major fault lines, including the San Andreas Fault in California and the New Madrid Seismic Zone in the central part of the country. These fault systems, along with others, have the potential to generate powerful earthquakes. Additionally, regions like Alaska and the Pacific Northwest are susceptible to mega-thrust earthquakes, which can have devastating effects.

The Importance of an Earthquake Early Warning System - EEW

Earthquakes generally strike without warning, making it crucial to have effective early earthquake warning systems in place. EEWs are vital to mitigate the potential impact on lives, infrastructure, and the economy.

ShakeAlert, developed by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), is a system that utilizes seismometers to detect the initial waves of an earthquake. This allows for prompt dissemination of alerts, providing valuable time for people to take cover, utilities to shut down, and emergency responders to mobilize.

States without EEW

According to the USGS earthquake risk map, the states with the highest risk for earthquakes are?Arizona, Montana, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, South Carolina, Alaska, California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming and Idaho.

However, ShakeAlert is active only in California, Oregon and Washington.

The remaining states, with their sizable populations and critical infrastructure, remain vulnerable to the unpredictability of earthquakes.

The Risk to People, Businesses and Institutions

The absence of an EEW system in these states exposes the civilian and business community to a grave danger. Without early warnings, residents are deprived of vital seconds or minutes needed to seek shelter, secure possessions, or evacuate hazardous areas. The consequences can be dire, resulting in a higher likelihood of injuries and loss of life.

Businesses throughout these states remain exposed, including their infrastructure, teams, processes and operations, and the resulting financial repercussions from a possible disaster. Many enterprises would find it hard to recover from such an event.

The lack of an earthquake alert or EEW system puts critical public utilities and infrastructure at risk as well. Hospitals, schools, power plants, and transportation systems, among others, could suffer severe damage during an earthquake, leading to prolonged disruptions in services and an enormous economic toll.

The Urgent Need for Action

To ensure the safety and well-being of their residents, all states must prioritize the implementation of earthquake early warning systems. Investing in these technologies is an investment in public safety, reducing the potential for loss of life and minimizing damage to infrastructure.?