Late on Tuesday afternoon, a Virginia county experienced a minor earthquake, which raised concerns among residents in the area.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) has officially confirmed that a 2.8 magnitude earthquake occurred in Henrico County and nearby municipalities shortly before 5:30 p.m. on January 14.
The USGS reported that the earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately one mile north of Wyndham, in close proximity to Short Pump (3.9 miles), Glen Allen (6.1 miles), Laurel (6.9 miles), and Richmond (13.2 miles).
The Virginia earthquake on Tuesday had its epicenter at a specific location.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a renowned organization that plays a vital role in the scientific study of the Earth’s natural resources and hazards.
“Since at least 1774, people in central Virginia have felt small earthquakes and suffered damage from infrequent larger ones,” the organization noted .
“The largest damaging earthquake (magnitude 5.8) in the seismic zone occurred in 2011,” officials added. “Smaller earthquakes that cause little or no damage are felt each year or two.”
Hanover County has been notified of a 2.8 magnitude earthquake in western Henrico. We are aware some Hanover County residents felt the earthquake.
Please report any damages to our nonemergency line, 804-365-6140, beginning tomorrow.
#HanoverVA pic.twitter.com/ta7b9Pv5T6— Hanover Sheriff (@HanoverSheriff) January 14, 2025
According to county officials, there have been reports of an earthquake, but as of 7 p.m. on Tuesday, no damage has been reported.
Henrico County is aware of reports of a 2.8 magnitude earthquake near Wyndham. At this time, the county has received no reports of damage. If you have damage, you may call the county's nonemergency number at (804) 501-5000. Call 911 for an emergency.https://t.co/GFYffe4SQq
— Henrico County Government (@HenricoNews) January 14, 2025
If you experienced the tremor, you can inform the agency by using its interactive map.