Montana vs Tennessee Earthquake Risk

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

Montana averages approximately 150 earthquakes per year, while Tennessee averages about 50 per year. Montana experiences roughly 100 more earthquakes annually.

Montana is associated with Intermountain Seismic Belt, Lewis & Clark zone. Tennessee is associated with New Madrid Seismic Zone (western TN). 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 25% in Tennessee. Montana has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Montana's most notable earthquake: 1959 Hebgen Lake (M7.3). Tennessee's most notable earthquake: 1811 New Madrid (felt strongly). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.