An earthquake struck near the South Carolina and Virginia border and was felt in multiple states.
The 5.1 magnitude quake occurred at approximately 8 a.m. on Sunday morning two miles away from the town of Sparta, North Carolina, which is about 100 miles north of Charlotte, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
“It felt like a big locomotive going by and a big wave coming underneath the bed. A big wave coming to lift you,” said Sparta Mayor Wes Brinegar, who was awakened by the earthquake. “Cracked foundation, and stuff falling off shelves in houses. I’ve lived here my whole life and have never felt anything like that.”
The government agency issued a green alert following the quake, which estimates a low level of economic losses and fatalities. No injuries or damages were immediately reported. The quake, however, was reportedly felt in multiple states, including into Tennessee and Georgia.
Moderate #earthquake (#sismo) shakes Virginia-N Carolina Border Reg 8 min ago. Map of eyewitnesses’ felt reports: pic.twitter.com/ud3W9PVoZI
— EMSC (@LastQuake) August 9, 2020
According to the USGS, the earthquake was the strongest to hit North Carolina since 1916, when a 5.2 magnitude quake struck Asheville.
