News Summary
On May 10, 2025, a 4.1-magnitude earthquake shook the southeastern United States, with its epicenter located near Greenback, Tennessee. Residents in cities across Tennessee and beyond, including Chattanooga and Atlanta, reported feeling the tremors. No major damage occurred, but there is a predicted 5% chance of aftershocks in the coming week. The eastern Tennessee seismic zone is known for its seismic activity, though large quakes are rare, with only a few significant ones recorded since 1950.
4.1-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Southeastern U.S.!
On Saturday, May 10, 2025, a **buzzy** little earthquake decided to make a splash by shaking up the southeastern United States at exactly **9:04 a.m.** Eastern Time. This 4.1-magnitude quake had its epicenter located about **12 miles southeast** of the quaint town of Greenback, Tennessee, and a mere **30 miles south** of Knoxville. For those keeping score, that’s a location wise enough to feel a little tremble right from the cozy comfort of their couches!
How it Felt Across the Region
The aftershocks were felt far and wide, too—way beyond Tennessee’s borders. Enthusiastic residents of cities like **Chattanooga, Atlanta, Asheville, and Greenville** reported on the sensation of the quake in real time. In fact, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said they received **over 30,000 reports** from the public during the *first hour alone*. Imagine everyone waking up and having a good old chat about a little shaking!
Understanding the Seismic Waves
What’s fascinating about this earthquake is how the seismic waves spread. In the eastern U.S., these waves tend to **travel like a cheetah** compared to the western regions, resulting in a much wider area feeling the tremors. Interestingly, the quake was recorded at a depth of **15 miles** below the surface, which normally means that it can still have a powerful impact on a larger scale.
Taking Precautions
Now, while folks were feeling the ground move beneath their feet, it’s important to note that **no injuries or major damage** came to light right after the event. Residents from as far away as **Braselton, Georgia**, and those close to **Knoxville**, were simply charmed by the excitement of it all! If you’re wondering about future tremors, seismologists predict a **5% chance** of an aftershock of magnitude 4 or greater happening within the next week. So stay tuned!
More on the Eastern Tennessee Seismic Zone
It’s worth mentioning that this area, known as the **eastern Tennessee seismic zone**, isn’t a stranger to earthquakes. Historically, it’s been known for its seismic activity, but worry not—this region isn’t known for large quakes. In fact, there have been only **15 others** of magnitude 4 or larger since 1950, and the biggest recorded quake in this zone was a **4.7 magnitude** shake back in November **1973** near Knoxville.
Future Insights
As for smaller quakes in the recent past, two mighty little tremors occurred in December **2018** within the same seismic zone. It’s interesting to note that damage from earthquakes often requires a magnitude of **4 to 5 or higher** to really take a toll, and that’s influenced by factors like building construction and distance from the epicenter. In light of this recent activity, even those who enjoy a good scare wouldn’t mind a little update on seismic trends.
As We Wrap Up
So, to wrap things up! The Saturday quake stirred excitement and questions but left many unharmed and unscathed. With **minor adjustments** expected along the fault, any aftershocks are generally anticipated to be smaller than the original tremor. It seems like Mother Nature just wanted to remind everyone in the southeastern U.S. that she’s still got a bit of shake left in her!
Stay safe and keep your sense of humor—even when things get a little shaky!
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Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas 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 Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
