Arizona vs Virginia Earthquake Risk

Arizona and Virginia share the same risk score of 3/10 (Low-Moderate). Both states face similar levels of seismic hazard, though the specific fault systems and earthquake characteristics differ.

Arizona averages approximately 20 earthquakes per year, while Virginia averages about 5 per year. Arizona experiences roughly 15 more earthquakes annually.

Arizona is associated with Basin and Range faults. Virginia is associated with Central Virginia seismic 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 10% in Virginia. Arizona has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Arizona's most notable earthquake: 1887 Sonoran (M7.2, felt in AZ). Virginia's most notable earthquake: 2011 Mineral (M5.8). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.