Lake Toxaway, North Carolina.The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reports that two minor earthquakes struck the same location just hours apart over the weekend, causing residents in sections of Western North Carolina to experience a rare double seismic event.
Back-to-Back Tremors in Lake Toxaway
According to USGS statistics, the first earthquake, which had a magnitude of 2.1, happened just before 7 a.m. on Saturday, August 9. A second earthquake, with a value of 1.8, occurred at approximately 9:15 a.m. The epicenters of both shocks were located on each side of Blue Ridge Road, north of Lake Toxaway in Transylvania County.
Five days before to these earthquakes, on August 4, a second low-magnitude tremor was detected in the same region.
Tremors Felt Beyond North Carolina
Approximately 90 minutes south of the epicenter, in Landrum, South Carolina, the Saturday morning tremors were felt, however no damage was reported. Residents’ accounts of mild shaking were verified by the USGS.
In addition to the unprecedented day of seismic activity throughout the Carolinas, a 1.9-magnitude earthquake also occurred in the Myrtle Beach region, close to the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge, the same morning (WBTV).
Low-Magnitude Quakes: No Cause for Alarm
Although they can be felt by those in close proximity, earthquakes with magnitudes less than 3.0 typically do not result in structural damage, according to seismologists. Small tremors occur occasionally in North Carolina, usually along faults in the Piedmont and Blue Ridge Mountains.
In North Carolina, have you ever experienced an earthquake?Participate in the discussion at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com and leave a comment about your experience.
