Idaho vs New Mexico Earthquake Risk

Idaho has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 6/10 (Moderate-High) compared to New Mexico at 4/10 (Moderate). This means Idaho faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Idaho averages approximately 100 earthquakes per year, while New Mexico averages about 40 per year. Idaho experiences roughly 60 more earthquakes annually.

Idaho is associated with Lost River, Lemhi, Beaverhead faults. New Mexico is associated with Rio Grande Rift, Socorro Magma Body. 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 30% in New Mexico. Idaho has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Idaho's most notable earthquake: 1983 Borah Peak (M6.9). New Mexico's most notable earthquake: 1906 Socorro (M6.0). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.