Arizona vs Montana Earthquake Risk

Montana has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 6/10 (Moderate-High) compared to Arizona at 3/10 (Low-Moderate). This means Montana faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Arizona averages approximately 20 earthquakes per year, while Montana averages about 150 per year. Montana experiences roughly 130 more earthquakes annually.

Arizona is associated with Basin and Range faults. Montana is associated with Intermountain Seismic Belt, Lewis & Clark zone. 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 50% in Montana. Montana has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Arizona's most notable earthquake: 1887 Sonoran (M7.2, felt in AZ). Montana's most notable earthquake: 1959 Hebgen Lake (M7.3). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.