Missouri vs South Carolina Earthquake Risk

Missouri has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 6/10 (Moderate-High) compared to South Carolina at 5/10 (Moderate). This means Missouri faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Missouri averages approximately 200 earthquakes per year, while South Carolina averages about 15 per year. Missouri experiences roughly 185 more earthquakes annually.

Missouri is associated with New Madrid 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 Missouri, approximately 30% of the population lives in areas at risk from earthquakes, compared to 20% in South 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). South Carolina's most notable earthquake: 1886 Charleston (M7.3). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.