News Summary
A 4.1 magnitude earthquake shook the area near the Tennessee-North Carolina border, with reports of tremors felt as far away as Charlotte, North Carolina. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 15 to 16 miles and has spurred discussions on earthquake preparedness among local residents and officials.
Greenback, Tennessee
A 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck near the Tennessee-North Carolina border on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 9:04 a.m. EDT. The epicenter was located about 12 miles southeast of Greenback, Tennessee, which is around 30 miles south of Knoxville. The tremors were felt across a wide area, reaching as far as Charlotte, North Carolina, approximately 260 miles to the east.
In the hours following the earthquake, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) received over 23,000 reports of tremors. Reports indicated that residents from as far away as Atlanta, Georgia, experienced the vibrations, along with people in various communities throughout western North Carolina, including Concord, Mooresville, and Huntersville. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries resulting from the earthquake.
Earthquake Details
The earthquake occurred at a depth of approximately 15 to 16 miles beneath the earth’s surface. According to the USGS, damage is typically associated with earthquakes of magnitude 4.5 or higher, indicating that the impact from this tremor would likely be minimal.
Residents’ reactions varied, with some describing sensations of shaking and rattling. Reports included observations of pets reacting nervously, with many individuals mistaking the tremors for the sound of low-flying aircraft. For example, one resident in Braselton, Georgia, initially believed the shaking was caused by an aircraft while cooking.
Seismic Activity in the Region
The eastern Tennessee seismic zone is recognized as one of the most active earthquake zones in the Southeast United States. While the region is not traditionally known for large earthquakes, it has experienced several significant tremors in the past. The largest recorded quake in the area was a 4.7 magnitude earthquake near Knoxville in November 1973. Additionally, there were two notable tremors in December 2018, one of which measured 4.4 magnitude.
The USGS has reported a 5% chance of aftershocks of magnitude 4 or greater occurring in the upcoming week. This estimate is based on historical seismic activity patterns and the geological characteristics of the region, which allow seismic waves to travel further than in many areas of the western United States.
The recent earthquake has prompted conversations among residents and officials regarding preparedness for future seismic events. As awareness of potential risks increases, many are reflecting on the need for emergency plans in place for unexpected tremors.
Community Response
Local residents and community leaders are encouraged to stay informed and consider actions to ensure safety. Despite the mild magnitude of the earthquake, the widespread perception of shaking underscores the importance of understanding earthquake preparedness, especially in active seismic zones.
The occurrence of this earthquake serves as a reminder of the region’s geological activity and the necessity for ongoing monitoring and resilience planning in southeastern Tennessee and surrounding areas.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
4.1-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Southeastern U.S.
Severe Weather Pummels Western North Carolina
Elgin, South Carolina Experiences 2.0 Magnitude Earthquake
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Earthquake near Tennessee-Georgia-North Carolina
- Wikipedia: Earthquake
- WRAL: 4.1 Earthquake near Tennessee
- Google Search: earthquake Tennessee
- ABC News: 4.1 Preliminary Magnitude Earthquake
- Google Scholar: earthquake Tennessee
- AP News: Earthquake report for Tennessee, Atlanta, and North Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Earthquake
- WSOC TV: Magnitude 4.1 Earthquake Hits Tennessee-North Carolina Border
- Google News: earthquake Tennessee May 2025
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
