Kentucky vs Massachusetts Earthquake Risk

Kentucky and Massachusetts share the same risk score of 3/10 (Low-Moderate). Both states face similar levels of seismic hazard, though the specific fault systems and earthquake characteristics differ.

Kentucky averages approximately 10 earthquakes per year, while Massachusetts averages about 5 per year. Kentucky experiences roughly 5 more earthquakes annually.

Kentucky is associated with New Madrid (western KY). Massachusetts is associated with Cape Ann seismic zone. These fault systems determine the type and frequency of seismic activity each state experiences.

In Kentucky, approximately 15% of the population lives in areas at risk from earthquakes, compared to 10% in Massachusetts. Kentucky has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Kentucky's most notable earthquake: 1980 Sharpsburg (M5.2). Massachusetts's most notable earthquake: 1755 Cape Ann (M6.0). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.