Illinois vs Kentucky Earthquake Risk

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

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

Illinois is associated with New Madrid, Wabash Valley seismic zones. Kentucky is associated with New Madrid (western KY). These fault systems determine the type and frequency of seismic activity each state experiences.

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

Illinois's most notable earthquake: 1968 Southern Illinois (M5.4). Kentucky's most notable earthquake: 1980 Sharpsburg (M5.2). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.