Montana vs New Mexico Earthquake Risk

Montana has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 6/10 (Moderate-High) compared to New Mexico at 4/10 (Moderate). This means Montana faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Montana averages approximately 150 earthquakes per year, while New Mexico averages about 40 per year. Montana experiences roughly 110 more earthquakes annually.

Montana is associated with Intermountain Seismic Belt, Lewis & Clark zone. New Mexico is associated with Rio Grande Rift, Socorro Magma Body. These fault systems determine the type and frequency of seismic activity each state experiences.

In Montana, approximately 50% of the population lives in areas at risk from earthquakes, compared to 30% in New Mexico. Montana has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Montana's most notable earthquake: 1959 Hebgen Lake (M7.3). New Mexico's most notable earthquake: 1906 Socorro (M6.0). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.