Kentucky vs South Carolina Earthquake Risk

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

Kentucky averages approximately 10 earthquakes per year, while South Carolina averages about 15 per year. South Carolina experiences roughly 5 more earthquakes annually.

Kentucky is associated with New Madrid (western KY). South Carolina is associated with Middleton Place-Summerville 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 20% in South Carolina. South Carolina has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Kentucky's most notable earthquake: 1980 Sharpsburg (M5.2). South Carolina's most notable earthquake: 1886 Charleston (M7.3). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.