Kentucky vs Oklahoma Earthquake Risk

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

Kentucky averages approximately 10 earthquakes per year, while Oklahoma averages about 100 per year. Oklahoma experiences roughly 90 more earthquakes annually.

Kentucky is associated with New Madrid (western KY). Oklahoma is associated with Induced seismicity from wastewater injection. 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 40% in Oklahoma. Oklahoma has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Kentucky's most notable earthquake: 1980 Sharpsburg (M5.2). Oklahoma's most notable earthquake: 2016 Pawnee (M5.8). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.