Illinois vs Wyoming Earthquake Risk

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

Illinois averages approximately 30 earthquakes per year, while Wyoming averages about 2,000 per year. Wyoming experiences roughly 1,970 more earthquakes annually.

Illinois is associated with New Madrid, Wabash Valley seismic zones. Wyoming is associated with Teton Fault, Yellowstone volcanic zone. 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 40% in Wyoming. Wyoming has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Illinois's most notable earthquake: 1968 Southern Illinois (M5.4). Wyoming's most notable earthquake: 1959 Hebgen Lake (nearby, M7.3). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.