Kansas is not generally thought of as earthquake country. In recent years, however, the number and severity of earthquakes in the state — especially those emanating from the oil and gas fields along the Kansas/Oklahoma border southwest of Wichita — have spiked and appear to be increasing.

Nothing approaching a major earthquake has ever originated in Kansas. The largest event in recorded history was a 5.1 magnitude quake centered near Manhattan, Kan., in 1867. That magnitude is considered "moderate" on the Modified Mercalli Scale of earthquake intensity.

Despite the low risk of a major event, here are some resources that can help you be better prepared should a large earthquake take place.


  • OSHA Earthquakes Guide: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration emergency guide on how to prepare before an earthquake.
  • Drop, Cover and Hold Earthquake Preparedness Training Video: Shows detailed instruction and visual demonstration of the Drop, Cover and Hold procedure for surviving a major earthquake.
    Part 1:
    Part 2:  
     
  • Red Cross Earthquake Preparedness GuideEarthquake safety tips and preparedness actions provided by the American Red Cross.
  • Kansas Geological Survey earthquakes pageLots of information about the Kansas geology, Kansas earthquake history and induced seismicity.
  • USGS Kansas Earthquakes Information pageInformation about earthquake history in Kansas compiled by the United States Geological Survey.