“Rare 4.1-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes the Southeast

A 4.0-magnitude earthquake struck 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 depth of nearly 25 miles, classifying it as shallow.

People across Tennessee, Georgia, and the Carolinas reported mild shaking, with thousands submitting experiences to the USGS.

Social media lit up, especially in Atlanta. “First ever earthquake you could actually feel in Atlanta,” one user wrote,

describing 10 seconds of tremors. Another said, “I could’ve sworn I felt a slight tremor that shook my house.”

Despite the reports, no damage was reported by Knoxville’s fire or police departments.

Officials estimate a 23% chance of stronger aftershocks (magnitude 3 or higher) in the next week. Though Tennessee

isn’t known for strong quakes, it lies within the East Tennessee Seismic Zone—among the most active in the Southeast.

The state has recorded 21 quakes in the past month, though only three were over magnitude 3 this year.

Saturday’s quake is the seventh magnitude 4.0+ quake in Tennessee since 1900. The most recent

was a 4.4 in 2018 near Decatur. The strongest was a 4.7-magnitude quake near Alcoa in 1973.

Related Posts

Wisconsin Dairy Queen Sign Draws Attention Online

A Dairy Queen in Kewaskum, Wisconsin, recently drew attention online after a message posted on the restaurant’s outdoor sign began circulating on social media. The display included…

Door Sign Draws Customer Concerns, and Restaurant Chooses to Keep It

The men and women who serve in law enforcement work every day to help maintain safety and order in their communities. Their responsibilities can be demanding, and…

Her Obituary Included a Message That Drew Attention

An obituary for Kathleen Dehmlow, published by The Redwood Falls Gazette, attracted widespread public attention because of its unexpected tone. What began as a traditional memorial included…

Ella Bleu Travolta: A Journey of Growth, Confidence, and Talent

From the moment she was born, Ella Bleu Travolta naturally drew interest—not because she sought attention, but because she grew up surrounded by one of Hollywood’s most…

Young Actor Takes a Break From Hollywood to Focus on Family Life

Young performers in Hollywood often seem to live a dream life filled with opportunity, recognition, and excitement. From the outside, everything appears effortless. But growing up in…

Why Bees Matter: Understanding Their Role in Our Environment

Even though I’m not sure how many people will take the time to read or share this message, I still feel it’s worthwhile to write. Most online…