The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the earthquake at a depth of just 3.7 kilometers.
A shallow, 5.1-magnitude earthquake struck North Carolina on Sunday 9-A, causing building movement in the largest tremor to hit that area in more than 100 years, though there were no reports of major damage or injuries.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the earthquake at a depth of just 3.7 kilometers, with an epicenter near the city of Sparta, North Carolina, near the border with Virginia.
“Large earthquakes are relatively rare in the region,” the USGS said. “In the 20th century, an earthquake of magnitude 5 and larger occurred less than 100 kilometers from this one on August 9, a magnitude 5.2 in the Great Smoky Mountains in 1916.”
The quake “knocked things off our shelves and television stands,” resident Michaela Johnson, from neighboring Traphill, told local television WXII.
“When it hit here it sounded like a long roar, then it shook for about three minutes,” Emily Poff said. “It was very intense.”
Large earthquakes are relatively rare on the east coast of the United States.
A magnitude 5.8 one in 2011, centered further north in Virginia, caused millions of dollars in damage in the region, including the Washington Monument and the National Cathedral in the nation’s capital.
Sparta Mayor Wes Brinegar said on local television that she had not been informed of any injuries or major damage.
Amelia Warner
Amelia Warner writes all the Latest Articles. She mostly covers Entertainment topics, but at times loves to write about movie reviews as well.
