Las Vegas experiences seismic activity, though not as seismically active as some other Western U.S. areas. The city and its surroundings feel tremors, which are generally minor but warrant understanding and preparedness.
Earthquake Activity in the Las Vegas Valley
Nevada ranks as the third most seismically active state, following Alaska and California. Within the Las Vegas Valley, earthquake occurrences are relatively infrequent compared to the state’s overall activity. Over the past decade, approximately 167 earthquakes of magnitude 4 or higher occurred within 186 miles of Las Vegas, averaging about one per month. For earthquakes measuring magnitude 3 or higher, the area typically experiences around three per year.
Local tremors are small, with recent examples including a magnitude 2.5 earthquake in Las Vegas in 2022 and a magnitude 2.3 event near Henderson in April 2024. Historically, the filling of Lake Mead in the mid-1930s correlated with a series of magnitude 4 to 5 quakes, some distinctly felt in Las Vegas and causing minor damage in nearby Boulder City. The strongest earthquake in the region over the last ten years was a magnitude 7.1 event in 2019, located about 140 miles west-southwest of Las Vegas.
The Geological Factors at Play
The Las Vegas region is situated within the Basin and Range Province, characterized by extensive stretching of the Earth’s crust. This ongoing stretching leads to the formation of numerous normal faults, where blocks of crust move vertically relative to each other. While Nevada rests on the North American plate, crustal extension within this province accommodates broader tectonic forces from the Pacific plate’s movement.
Several major fault systems intersect or run near the Las Vegas Valley, contributing to its seismic potential. These include the Las Vegas Valley Shear Zone, the Frenchman Mountain Fault, and the Eglington Fault.
The Frenchman Mountain Fault, a west-dipping normal fault, is tectonic in origin with evidence of significant past movements. The Eglington Fault, an intrabasin fault, has been linked to past ground deformation and is a potential source for earthquakes over magnitude 6.
The Las Vegas Valley Shear Zone is a right-lateral strike-slip fault that facilitated substantial horizontal movement millions of years ago, influencing basin formation.
Understanding Seismic Risk and Preparedness
Las Vegas faces a moderate seismic risk. Studies estimate approximately a 12% probability of a magnitude 6.0 earthquake occurring within 50 kilometers of Las Vegas over a 50-year period, highlighting the need for preparedness.
In response to this risk, Clark County updated its building codes in the mid-1990s to enhance seismic safety. Newer constructions, including many high-rise hotels along the Strip, are designed to withstand considerable ground shaking. These modern building standards prioritize occupant safety, ensuring structures remain standing even if they sustain some damage.
For residents, preparedness measures are straightforward.
- During an earthquake, “Drop, Cover, and Hold On”: Drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until shaking stops.
- Secure heavy items like bookshelves and water heaters to walls to prevent injuries and property damage.
- Maintain an emergency kit with essential supplies: water, non-perishable food, and a flashlight.
- Establish a family communication plan, including a designated out-of-state contact, to ensure safety and reunification.