Missouri vs North Carolina Earthquake Risk

Missouri has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 6/10 (Moderate-High) compared to North Carolina at 2/10 (Low). This means Missouri faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Missouri averages approximately 200 earthquakes per year, while North Carolina averages about 5 per year. Missouri experiences roughly 195 more earthquakes annually.

Missouri is associated with New Madrid Seismic Zone. North Carolina is associated with Eastern Tennessee Seismic Zone. These fault systems determine the type and frequency of seismic activity each state experiences.

In Missouri, approximately 30% of the population lives in areas at risk from earthquakes, compared to 5% in North Carolina. Missouri has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Missouri's most notable earthquake: 1811-12 New Madrid (M7.5-7.7). North Carolina's most notable earthquake: 1916 Asheville area (M5.5). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.