Arizona vs Illinois Earthquake Risk

Illinois has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 5/10 (Moderate) compared to Arizona at 3/10 (Low-Moderate). This means Illinois faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Arizona averages approximately 20 earthquakes per year, while Illinois averages about 30 per year. Illinois experiences roughly 10 more earthquakes annually.

Arizona is associated with Basin and Range faults. Illinois is associated with New Madrid, Wabash Valley seismic zones. These fault systems determine the type and frequency of seismic activity each state experiences.

In Arizona, approximately 15% of the population lives in areas at risk from earthquakes, compared to 15% in Illinois. Illinois has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Arizona's most notable earthquake: 1887 Sonoran (M7.2, felt in AZ). Illinois's most notable earthquake: 1968 Southern Illinois (M5.4). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.