North Carolina vs South Carolina Earthquake Risk

South Carolina has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 5/10 (Moderate) compared to North Carolina at 2/10 (Low). This means South Carolina faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

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

North Carolina is associated with Eastern Tennessee 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 North Carolina, approximately 5% 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.

North Carolina's most notable earthquake: 1916 Asheville area (M5.5). South Carolina's most notable earthquake: 1886 Charleston (M7.3). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.