Kentucky vs Oregon Earthquake Risk

Oregon has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 8/10 (High) compared to Kentucky at 3/10 (Low-Moderate). This means Oregon faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Kentucky averages approximately 10 earthquakes per year, while Oregon averages about 500 per year. Oregon experiences roughly 490 more earthquakes annually.

Kentucky is associated with New Madrid (western KY). Oregon is associated with Cascadia subduction zone, Klamath graben. 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 80% in Oregon. Oregon has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Kentucky's most notable earthquake: 1980 Sharpsburg (M5.2). Oregon's most notable earthquake: 1993 Scotts Mills (M5.6). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.