In Ohio, the main disasters that the average person thinks about are floods,tornadoes, and extreme t-storms. Earthquakes are one thing that most Ohioans never think about, because they have never experienced them before. The last time that a major earthquake hit Ohio was back in 1937.
This earthquake struck Anna, Ohio and had a magnitude of 5.5. Ohio actually has numerous earthquakes, most of them registering in the range of 2-3 on the Richter scale. To see a list of earthquakes that have been recorded since 2000 click here.
Earthquakes have the ability to sever natural gas lines, knock down buildings, and even lower the water table. Major earthquakes are rare and unpredictable, but being prepared for one is key.
The majority of earthquakes in Ohio occur in the western and northeastern counties. Shelby county has had the majority of earthquakes in the western side of the state, as Geauga and Ashtabula house the most quakes in the northeastern section. To view a map of Ohio’s major epicenters click here.
Even though major earthquakes are not as prevalent when you put Ohio against California, there are still fault lines here that could produce major quakes. Talk to your insurance agent, and see if earthquake insurance is something that you may want for your home.
Earthquake insurance may seem a little far fetched in Ohio, but when it comes to being prepared, earthquake insurance is something that Ohioans should look into.