Illinois vs Ohio Earthquake Risk

Illinois has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 5/10 (Moderate) compared to Ohio at 2/10 (Low). This means Illinois faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Illinois averages approximately 30 earthquakes per year, while Ohio averages about 5 per year. Illinois experiences roughly 25 more earthquakes annually.

Illinois is associated with New Madrid, Wabash Valley seismic zones. Ohio is associated with Anna Seismic Zone, induced seismicity. 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 5% in Ohio. Illinois has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Illinois's most notable earthquake: 1968 Southern Illinois (M5.4). Ohio's most notable earthquake: 1986 Perry (M5.0). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.