Post by : Raina
Al-Fahim
A shallow earthquake measuring 3.3 in magnitude rattled parts of north-west England on Wednesday night, catching many off guard with rattling homes and loud noises. The British Geological Survey (BGS) reported that the quake occurred shortly after 11:23 PM, and its effects were felt across the Lancashire region and the southern Lake District.
The epicentre was located just off Silverdale’s coast, at a depth of approximately 1.86 miles. Thankfully, this tremor did not lead to any reported damage, although many residents rushed outside in alarm due to the unexpected shaking.
Witnesses described the event as resembling an “underground explosion”, with enough force to make furniture shake and send residents into a panic in otherwise quiet areas.
In Carnforth, the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service reported numerous accounts of a loud bang coinciding with the quake. Lancaster Police confirmed receiving similar reports and clarified that the noises were linked to the “minor earthquake near the Lancashire–Cumbria border.”
Authorities reassured the public that there were no injuries or significant damage to structures. Police, fire service, and North West Ambulance crews were dispatched to areas as a precaution.
The Volcano Discovery website recorded over 1,000 reports from citizens, some as far away as Blackpool. One resident from Carnforth stated that the tremor’s intensity made it feel like the roof was going to collapse, while another from Silverdale mentioned it was strong enough to compel them to check for damage.
Although earthquakes are not common in the UK, the BGS notes approximately 300 tremors each year, with only about 30 being noticeable. This 3.3-magnitude quake serves as a reminder that even minor earthquakes can have a noticeable impact, especially when occurring close to the surface.
English
