Shoutout to MWoods on the idea for this post! So a lot of people know about the east coast earthquake last week in VA that was felt even in North Carolina. Got MWoods thinking about some past earthquakes in NC and if there were any?
Well, I’m glad MWoods asked, because the facts are pretty interesting. Let’s take a look at some!
March 8, 1735 – First recorded earthquake in NC history. Took place in Bath (home to Blackbeard for you non-NC-ers)
Feb 21, 1774 – Earthquake from VA felt in Winston-Salem of generous size
Feb 10-April 17, 1874 – 75 earthquakes in McDowell County area. Although the shakes got violent, no real damage reported!
August 31, 1886 – Earthquake which caused most property damage of all NC earthquakes took place on this date. Actually an earthquake from Charleston, SC. Some trace NC hatred towards SC back to this exact date. Okay, maybe not. But seriously. Thanks, SC.
Feb 26, 1916 – Largest earthquake to center inside NC boundaries. Was in Asheville, NC. Intensity VI. Remember, Richter scale wasn’t around until 1935.
There were a few others here and there since, but nothing of severe magnitude. Pretty cool history lesson you got there for the free. Donations accepted.
