Mag 2.7 earthquake in Cornwall, 19 Nov 2023

In summary, a magnitude 2.7 earthquake struck Cornwall on November 19, 2023. The tremor was felt by residents across the region but caused no significant damage or injuries. Seismologists noted that such minor earthquakes are not uncommon in the area, reassuring the public about the event's low impact.
  • #1
Astronuc
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
2023 Award
22,195
6,878

Cornwall shaken by 2.7 magnitude earthquake​

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c724le759lro

That's not a significant earthquake, unless one's house is near the epicenter.
Its epicentre was in the Mounts Bay area, near Penzance in west Cornwall, with people woken up by a loud bang from St Just in the west of the county to Redruth about 20 miles (32km) north-east from the point of origin.
Residents in Helston, Penzance and Camborne reported feeling the tremors. Some of my ancestors were from that area, and I still have relatives there.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/20...quake-felt-like-a-juggernaut-hitting-a-house/
https://www.cornwalllive.com/news/cornwall-news/extent-cornwall-earthquake-locals-compare-8917761

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/worl...ke-a-juggernaut-had-hit-the-house/ar-AA1kc1ZU

On June 28, the village of Tean in Staffordshire was hit by a 3.3-magnitude earthquake, causing windows and doors to rattle in the surrounding area.

Earthquakes of this nature are not uncommon in Britain (the island including England, Scotland and Wales). In fact, hundreds of earthquakes shake Britain every single year.
I think most earthquakes are less the Mag 2, and they don't register for most folks.

Tean, Staffordshire (near Stoke-on-Trent) is about 300 miles (480 km) from Penzance, Cornwall.

The largest recorded earthquake in Britain so far took place in 1931 near Dogger Bank, 97km off the east coast of England. This earthquake measured 6.1 on the Richter scale and caused damage to buildings along the east coast.
https://metro.co.uk/2023/07/08/why-...-time-in-britain-but-not-in-ireland-19088853/
Most earthquakes in Britain are concentrated within a north-to-south band on the west side of the island. Neighbouring Ireland, however, is almost completely free from seismic activity – a phenomenon that has puzzled scientists for hundreds of years.
The luck of the Irish. :oldbiggrin:
 
Earth sciences news on Phys.org
  • #2
Wow, I don't think of England when I think of earthquakes. Even small ones!
 

FAQ: Mag 2.7 earthquake in Cornwall, 19 Nov 2023

What caused the Mag 2.7 earthquake in Cornwall on 19 Nov 2023?

The Mag 2.7 earthquake in Cornwall on 19 Nov 2023 was likely caused by tectonic movements in the Earth's crust. Small earthquakes like this are often the result of stress buildup along faults or the release of energy from geological processes. Cornwall is not typically known for large seismic activity, but minor quakes can occur due to the region's geological history.

Was the earthquake felt by residents in Cornwall?

Yes, the earthquake was felt by some residents in Cornwall, although its magnitude was relatively low. Many people reported minor shaking, but there were no significant damages or injuries associated with the event. Such small earthquakes can often go unnoticed by the general population.

Are earthquakes common in Cornwall?

Earthquakes in Cornwall are relatively uncommon compared to other regions in the UK, such as the south of England or areas near tectonic plate boundaries. However, minor seismic activity can occur, and the region has experienced small tremors in the past. The geological structure of Cornwall can occasionally lead to low-magnitude earthquakes.

What should people do during an earthquake?

During an earthquake, people should follow safety protocols, such as "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." This means dropping to the ground, taking cover under sturdy furniture, and holding on until the shaking stops. It's important to stay indoors if possible and avoid windows and heavy objects that could fall. After the shaking stops, individuals should check for injuries and be cautious of potential aftershocks.

Will there be aftershocks following the Mag 2.7 earthquake?

It is possible to experience aftershocks following the initial earthquake, especially after a magnitude 2.7 event. However, aftershocks are usually of lower magnitude and may not be felt by everyone. The likelihood of significant aftershocks decreases over time, but residents should remain aware and prepared for minor tremors in the days following the event.

Similar threads

M7.6 Earthquake of coast of Mindinao, Philippines
Replies
4
Views
2K
Low magnitude earthquakes in Scotland, Highlands and Inner Hebrides
Replies
3
Views
2K
Mag 7.8, 7.5, 6.7 and 6.0 earthquakes and aftershocks in Turkey
Replies
31
Views
3K
Mag 6.4, Triple Point -Juan de Fuca (Gorda), N America, Pacific Plates
Replies
6
Views
1K
Two Mag 6.0 earthquakes off NE coast, Iwate, Japan
Replies
5
Views
3K
Mag. 8 & 7 Earthquakes - Mexico 08/09/2017 & 19/09/2017
Replies
20
Views
6K
M6.0 Earthquake and aftershocks, Island of Crete, Greece
Replies
1
Views
1K
Mag 6.2 Earthquake near Norcia, Umbria, Italy
Replies
22
Views
5K
Mag 5.2 earthquake, Southern California, San Jacinto fault
Replies
5
Views
3K
Another Earthquake has struck Nepal
Replies
2
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top