Columbus, North CarolinaPeople in western North Carolina were startled Thursday morning when a little earthquake was detected in Polk County, just outside the town of Columbus.
The earthquake occurred at 11:14 a.m. on August 14, approximately 4.4 miles north of Columbus, a community of less than 1,000 people located about 15 miles from Hendersonville, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. (WXII12)
Over 500 People Felt the Earthquake
The USGS had received 551 reports of earthquake sensations as of early Thursday afternoon. Despite being characterized as mild, the shaking was powerful enough to shock locals in the nearby highlands and foothills.
As to the time of writing, authorities had not verified any significant structural problems, despite early complaints of property damage.
Polk County Located in a Seismically Quiet Region
Although they are rare, earthquakes do occur in western North Carolina. Although the area is distant from major fault lines, minor earthquakes do occasionally occur, particularly in the vicinity of the Appalachian foothills.
In addition to usual awareness, no safety cautions have been issued by local emergency management officials, and no injuries have been reported. Through their Did You Feel It? site, residents are invited to report earthquakes or damage to the USGS.
Have you ever been in the Carolinas during an earthquake? For confirmed updates on weather and earthquake events in the region, leave a comment below and follow the Saltuda Standard-Sentinel.
