Severe weather risks in Missouri

Different regions of Missouri have significant risk for earthquakes, tornados and floods. 

Earthquake

Missouri, along with six other states, has significant risk of loss due to the New Madrid Seismic Zone and the Wabash Fault. In 1811 and 1812, a severe earthquake occurred near New Madrid, in Missouri's bootheel. 

• Read the United States Geological Survey account of the 1811-12 earthquakes.
• St Louis University Earthquake Center and SMSU Center for Earthquake Studies have information about eathquakes and the New Madrid Fault.

Tornado

Missouri, along with Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas, is prone to occassional tornados which can cause extensive damage in a small area.

• The Federal Emergency Management Agency has tips on building a storm shelter in your house.
• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has tornado facts available.

Flood

In 1993 and 1995, Missouri, along with many other states in the Mississippi Valley and along the Missouri River and its tributaries, suffered extensive flooding. 

• The National Flood Insurance Program has information on purchasing flood insurance.