Massachusetts vs Oregon Earthquake Risk

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

Massachusetts averages approximately 5 earthquakes per year, while Oregon averages about 500 per year. Oregon experiences roughly 495 more earthquakes annually.

Massachusetts is associated with Cape Ann seismic zone. Oregon is associated with Cascadia subduction zone, Klamath graben. These fault systems determine the type and frequency of seismic activity each state experiences.

In Massachusetts, approximately 10% 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.

Massachusetts's most notable earthquake: 1755 Cape Ann (M6.0). Oregon's most notable earthquake: 1993 Scotts Mills (M5.6). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.