Earthquakes and Vermont

Though not entirely common, earthquakes can (and do) occur in Vermont. Be prepared by knowing that GW Savage is there for you in a time of need, to rebuild your property and to make your house back into your home.

When was the last time an Earthquake occurred in Vermont?

The last earthquake that affected Vermont occurred in Ticonderoga, NY, (on June 30, 2017) only 7 miles from the VT border. The quake measured at a magnitude of 2.2 with a 4km depth point.

How often do Earthquakes occur in Vermont?

Vermont has had 9 earthquakes that have affected them in the past year. A majority occur in New York, but are a mere few miles from Vermont, so the residents of the Green Mountain State feel an effect as well. 18 earthquakes have occurred in the State of Vermont since 1931. The earthquakes are somewhat common, but typically minor with an average of an about 2.1 magnitude.

Does Vermont ever experience any major earthquakes?

Vermont has been affected by major earthquakes dating all the way back to 1638 when a quake hit New Hampshire with a whopping 7.0 magnitude. Most recently, a 5.0 magnitude quake struck the border between Ontario and Quebec and had rumbling effects on Vermonters. Although major earthquakes are not popular for Vermont, they do indeed happen.

Is Vermont due for a major earthquake?

A major earthquake for Vermont is not probable, however it is not unlikely either. It is unpredictable mainly due to the fact that Vermont does have an active fault line. According to Valley News, if a major quake were to occur in Vermont today, the result would be terrifying. There would be “structural damage to 6,400 residences, 1,600 commercial buildings, 218, hospitals, 115 schools, 39 polices stations, 34 fire stations and 32 highway bridges.” Due to damages, it would cost 1.2 billions dollars alone to repair power grids. With the potential lack of water and services, fire damage would result in 89 million dollars worth of residential property.

What can homeowners do to prepare themselves from this type of scare?

There are 6 main ways a homeowner can protect him or herself from an earthquake.

1. If purchasing a new house, it is recommended that you look more towards newer wooden homes as opposed to ones made of brick as houses framed of wood are much more inexpensive to insure.
2. Take care of potential threats to your house such as old, unstable trees, and pay attention to nearby power lines.
3. Identify weaknesses in home and repair them. Fix roof tiles, or add braces to chimneys to prevent bricks from falling through the ceiling. Inspect walls and ceilings for potential weak spots.
4. Put restraints on valuable technology items such as computers, TVs, etc.
5. Have a first aid kit available and come up with an emergency plan.
6. Know to contact GW Savage in an emergency!

Resources: Valley News; EarthquakeTrack.com