Illinois vs New Mexico Earthquake Risk

Illinois has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 5/10 (Moderate) compared to New Mexico at 4/10 (Moderate). This means Illinois faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Illinois averages approximately 30 earthquakes per year, while New Mexico averages about 40 per year. New Mexico experiences roughly 10 more earthquakes annually.

Illinois is associated with New Madrid, Wabash Valley seismic zones. 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 Illinois, approximately 15% of the population lives in areas at risk from earthquakes, compared to 30% in New Mexico. New Mexico has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Illinois's most notable earthquake: 1968 Southern Illinois (M5.4). New Mexico's most notable earthquake: 1906 Socorro (M6.0). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.