Reports have been circulating on social media that London experienced an earthquake in the early hours of this morning. The reports claim that the quake was felt across several areas of the city and surrounding regions.
What Happened
The British Geological Survey (BGS) has confirmed that a 3.3 magnitude earthquake occurred in the early hours of this morning, with its epicenter located in the county of Bedfordshire, just outside of London.
The BGS has stated that it is uncommon for earthquakes of this magnitude to occur in the UK and that they receive reports of around 200 earthquakes each year, most of which are too small to be felt by people. The last time a similar-sized earthquake was felt in the UK was in February 2018, when a 4.4 magnitude quake struck South Wales.
Impact
The BGS has stated that they have received several reports from people who felt tremors during the earthquake but that there have been no reports of any damage or injuries as a result.
Despite this, many people took to social media to report feeling their beds shaking and hearing loud noises during the quake. Some people even reported being woken up by the tremors.
What Causes Earthquakes
Earthquakes are caused by movements in tectonic plates beneath the surface of the earth. These plates are constantly moving and shifting against one another, causing pressure to build up and eventually leading to an earthquake.
In recent years, there has been growing concern over whether human activity such as fracking or construction work can cause earthquakes. However, according to the BGS, these activities are unlikely to cause earthquakes above a magnitude of 3.0.
Preparing for an Earthquake
While earthquakes are relatively rare in the UK, it is still important to be prepared in case one does occur. The British Red Cross recommends that you:
- Create an emergency kit with essentials such as water, food, and first aid supplies.
- Identify safe places in your home where you can take cover during an earthquake.
- Practice “drop, cover, and hold on” drills with your family so that everyone knows what to do if an earthquake occurs.
In Conclusion
The earthquake that occurred in London this morning was a relatively small one and there have been no reports of any damage or injuries. It is important to be prepared for earthquakes, even if they are rare occurrences in the UK. By taking simple steps such as creating an emergency kit and practicing safety drills, you can help ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.