“Rare 4.1-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes the Southeast
Earthquake Strikes Near Greenback, Tennessee
A 4.0-magnitude earthquake hit near Greenback, Tennessee, at 9:04 a.m., according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred about 30 miles southwest of Knoxville at a shallow depth of nearly 25 miles.
Widespread Shaking Felt Across the Region
People in Tennessee, Georgia, and the Carolinas reported feeling mild shaking. Thousands shared their experiences with the USGS. In Atlanta, social media buzzed with comments like, “First ever earthquake you could actually feel in Atlanta,” and another said, “I could’ve sworn I felt a slight tremor that shook my house.”
No Damage Reported, Aftershocks Possible
Despite many reports of shaking, Knoxville’s fire and police departments confirmed no damage. Officials estimate a 23% chance of stronger aftershocks (magnitude 3 or higher) within the next week.
Tennessee’s Seismic Activity
Tennessee lies in the East Tennessee Seismic Zone, one of the most active areas in the Southeast. The state recorded 21 quakes last month, with only three over magnitude 3 this year. Saturday’s quake is the seventh magnitude 4.0+ earthquake since 1900. The strongest was a 4.7 magnitude near Alcoa in 1973, and the most recent before this was a 4.4 near Decatur in 2018.
