Massachusetts vs South Carolina Earthquake Risk

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

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

Massachusetts is associated with Cape Ann seismic zone. 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 Massachusetts, approximately 10% 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.

Massachusetts's most notable earthquake: 1755 Cape Ann (M6.0). South Carolina's most notable earthquake: 1886 Charleston (M7.3). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.