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Earthquake Hazards
Geological and seismological studies show that earthquakes are likely to happen in any of several active zones in Idaho and adjacent states. Idaho has experienced two large earthquakes in historical times—the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake (M7.3) and the 1983 Borah Peak earthquake (M6.9). Both tremors caused fatalities and millions of dollars in damage.
 

In all parts of Idaho, the historical record of seismicity reveals at least a moderate threat from earthquakes. The Idaho Geological Survey addresses earthquake concerns by studying faults and seismic activity, and by promoting earthquake education programs. The Survey works closely with other agencies such as the Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security in planning state and regional earthquake policy and response, and participates in regional organizations such as the Western States Seismic Policy Council (WSSPC).

 

Latest Idaho Earthquake Activity
Latest Idaho earthquake information from the U.S. Geological Survey.
 
Did You Feel It?
Did you feel an earthquake? Report it here and view regional maps of shaking intensity.
 
Locate faults and view information about rates and sense of movement.

Idaho Miocene –Quaternary Fault Map – Google Earth Version
Use the popular Google Earth viewer to locate faults and view information about the faults.
 
Idaho Epicenters
 
Major Historical Earthquakes of Idaho
Location map and descriptions of historical earthquakes in Idaho and an isoseismal map for the 1983 Borah Peak earthquake. GeoNote 5 describes the Borah Peak earthquake.
 
U.S. Geological Survey Probabilistic Seismic Hazards Maps
 
Earthquake Education
How to lessen earthquake risk to you and your home.
 
Earthquake Images
Photos of the fault scarps and damage caused by the 6.9 magnitude Borah Peak earthquake in 1983 near Challis in east-central Idaho.
 
Download this free poster