Everything Everywhere Daily · Wednesday, September 23, 2026
A major earthquake in the New Madrid seismic zone could result in unprecedented economic losses for the United States, according to FEMA. A 2008 report projected 86,000 casualties, 7.2 million displaced people, and $300 billion in direct economic losses.
“In 2008, the United States Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, reported that another large earthquake could happen again in the area.”
“They reported that if a major earthquake occurred, the United States would face the largest economic loss in its history from a natural disaster.”
“A scenario in the New Madrid seismic zone could result in 86,000 dead and injured, leave around 7.2 million people displaced within three days, and inflict approximately $300 billion in direct economic losses.”