Idaho vs Illinois Earthquake Risk

Idaho has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 6/10 (Moderate-High) compared to Illinois at 5/10 (Moderate). This means Idaho faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Idaho averages approximately 100 earthquakes per year, while Illinois averages about 30 per year. Idaho experiences roughly 70 more earthquakes annually.

Idaho is associated with Lost River, Lemhi, Beaverhead 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 Idaho, approximately 45% of the population lives in areas at risk from earthquakes, compared to 15% in Illinois. Idaho has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Idaho's most notable earthquake: 1983 Borah Peak (M6.9). Illinois's most notable earthquake: 1968 Southern Illinois (M5.4). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.