Utah & Earthquakes

With the extensive media coverage of recent large-scale earthquakes (Haiti, Chile, Turkey), many questions have been raised about earthquakes in Utah. How often do quakes happen in Utah? All the time. The above graphic from the University of Utah Seismograph Stations shows a shake map for the last significant earthquake in the Davis County area - a magnitude 3.0 quake on November 19, 2009. While most Utah earthquakes are not the "big one," residents still need to keep in mind a large earthquake can happen at any time, and to remember the importance of being prepared.

The Utah Seismic Safety Commission has published a booklet entitled "Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country" that is full of valuable information regarding living along the Wasatch Fault. The book includes maps, descriptions of the Wasatch Fault, a history of earthquakes in the area and preparedness checklists.

For more information on earthquakes and emergency preparedness, visit the Utah Geological Survey website.