Earthquake of 3.3 magnitude rattles Lancashire and Lake District

The Guardian
The Guardian
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A 3.3-magnitude earthquake struck near Silverdale, Lancashire, causing residents to report shaking homes. Fortunately, there were no injuries or damage.
Earthquake of 3.3 magnitude rattles Lancashire and Lake District
A What happened
A 3.3-magnitude earthquake occurred shortly after 11:23 PM on Wednesday, with its epicenter located near Silverdale in Lancashire. Residents across Lancashire and Cumbria reported feeling their homes shake, with some likening the experience to an underground explosion. The tremors were felt as far as 30 miles away, including in Blackpool. Fortunately, local authorities, including Lancashire police and fire services, reported no injuries or damage. The British Geological Survey confirmed this was the strongest earthquake in England since a similar magnitude event in Staffordshire earlier this year. Earthquakes of this magnitude are uncommon in the UK, with only a few occurring each year that are strong enough for people to feel. Residents shared their experiences online, expressing shock and fear, while emergency services received numerous calls about the disturbance.

Key insights

  • 1

    No Injuries Reported

    Emergency services confirmed no injuries or damage from the earthquake.

  • 2

    Strongest in Two Years

    This earthquake is the strongest recorded in England since 2021.

  • 3

    Rare Occurrence

    Earthquakes of 3.0 magnitude and above are relatively rare in the UK.

Takeaways

The 3.3-magnitude earthquake near Silverdale serves as a reminder of the geological activity in the region, despite being a rare occurrence. The lack of injuries and damage is fortunate, but the event has left residents shaken.

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