Magnitude 4.1 Earthquake Strikes Greenback, Tennessee

Map showing epicenter of the Tennessee earthquake

News Summary

A 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck Greenback, Tennessee, early Saturday morning, waking residents across several states. The quake’s epicenter was located southeast of Greenback, with tremors felt as far as North Carolina and Alabama. Fortunately, no serious injuries or damage has been reported, though officials continue to advise caution for potential aftershocks.

Greenback, Tennessee – A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck the region early Saturday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The seismic event occurred at approximately 9:04 a.m. Eastern time with its epicenter located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of Greenback, roughly 30 miles southwest of Knoxville. The quake was measured at a depth of 24.9 kilometers (15.4 miles).

Tremors were felt across several states, including reports from residents in Western North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky, and Virginia. Notably, residents in Tennessee cities such as Knoxville and Asheville experienced considerable shaking during the earthquake.

Despite the intensity of the tremors, there have been no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries across the affected areas. The Knoxville Fire and Police Departments have confirmed that they received no reports relating to structural damage or casualties. Residents shared their experiences through social media, with people from Asheville, Franklin, Waynesville, Hendersonville, and Arden noting the earthquake’s impact. Reports of shaking were also logged from Spartanburg and Seneca in South Carolina.

Seismic Context

The earthquake was linked to tectonic movements along the Appalachian Mountains, a region not typically known for large seismic activity. Historically, the Eastern Tennessee Seismic Zone is recognized for seismic phenomena, although major earthquakes are rare. The largest earthquake previously recorded in the vicinity was a magnitude 4.7 near Knoxville in November 1973.

The USGS indicated that previous seismic activities in Asheville reached a maximum magnitude of 5.5 in 1916, marking it as another point of reference for local seismic history. The geological characteristics of the area allow for seismic waves to travel farther compared to regions in the western United States, which increases the likelihood of residents in distant locations feeling tremors.

Public Response and Aftershocks

In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, residents reported over 23,000 observations to the USGS regarding what they experienced, with a significant influx of information received within the first hour. Meteorologists from various news stations across Georgia and North Carolina also reported feeling the tremors.

Experts classified earthquakes of this magnitude as typically causing only minor damage. However, there remains a 5% chance of a magnitude 4 or larger aftershock occurring within the week following the initial earthquake. Residents have been advised to steer clear of any damaged structures and to remain cautious due to the potential for aftershocks in the coming days.

As of the latest updates, officials from the National Earthquake Information Center (NEIC) noted that aftershocks have remained minimal, but they continue to monitor the situation closely. Seismologists are also assessing the data to determine if the earthquake’s reported magnitude may need revision.

In summary, while the magnitude 4.1 earthquake surprised many residents across the Southeast, the overall impact has been relatively minor concerning injuries and property damage. Continued observation and readiness are recommended as the monitoring efforts for any aftershocks proceed.