Are Earthquakes Common In Baltimore?
Yes, earthquakes are actually quite common in Baltimore! In fact, the city experiences a small earthquake every few years on average. While most of these earthquakes are very small and not felt by many people, they can still cause some damage to buildings and infrastructure. Earthquakes can also be dangerous if they occur near large bodies of water, like the Chesapeake Bay, as they can cause tsunamis. Thankfully, the risk of a large and destructive earthquake in Baltimore is very low.
Pedram Zohrevand says that Baltimore is located in an area with a “moderate” risk of earthquakes. He explains that the region is located near the boundary of two tectonic plates that are constantly moving and shifting. This movement can cause small earthquakes. When one thinks of Baltimore, one might conjure up images of the Inner Harbor, Camden Yards, or maybe even the TV show The Wire. But earthquakes? Not so much. And yet, just last week, a minor earthquake was reported near the city.
The answer to that question is a little complicated. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), there is no record of an earthquake causing damage in Baltimore City proper in recent history. However, that doesn’t mean that they never happen. In fact, just last week, a magnitude 2.6 earthquake was reported near the city.
So why don’t we feel them?
According to the USGS, the vast majority of earthquakes in the mid-Atlantic region are what are known as “microearthquakes.” These quakes are so small that they are rarely felt by people and usually don’t cause any damage. In fact, you could have a micro earthquake happening right beneath your feet and not even know it.
Baltimore does experience a small earthquake every few years on average, but most of these are too small to be felt. However, they can still cause some damage to buildings and infrastructure. Earthquakes can also be dangerous if they occur near large bodies of water, like the Chesapeake Bay, as they can cause tsunamis. Thankfully
Well, for one, they’re relatively small and infrequent. But more importantly, Baltimore sits on solid bedrock, which dampens the shaking from seismic activity. So while we may not have to worry about major earthquakes, it’s always good to be prepared—just in case.
Here are some tips from the USGS on what you can do to stay safe during an earthquake:
Drop to the ground
Take cover under a sturdy table or desk if possible, and hold on until the shaking stops. If there isn’t a table or desk nearby, drop to the ground against an interior wall away from windows and objects that could fall on you.
Stay away from glass
Any windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture, stay away from these.
Do not use elevators
Elevators could get stuck or become unsafe during a quake.
When outdoors during an earthquake
Stay away from buildings, power lines, and trees to avoid being injured by falling debris. Move to an open area if possible; away from buildings can provide refuge from falling materials.
Do not try to drive during an earthquake
The roads could be damaged or blocked, and you could become stranded. If you must drive, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Set your parking brake and stay in the vehicle until the shaking stops. Once it has stopped, proceed cautiously, looking for any damage to the road or signs of hazards ahead, such as downed power lines.
It shouldn’t happen until it does
So there you have it—earthquakes are not common in Baltimore, but they can happen. And while we may not have to worry about major damage, it’s always good to be prepared. Stay safe!
Earthquakes are one of those things that most of us don’t think about until they happen. And when they do, it’s usually a bit of a shock. If you’re from Baltimore, you may be wondering if earthquakes are common in the area. The answer is no, they’re not common, but they do happen from time to time. Here’s a quick overview of earthquakes in Baltimore.
The last significant earthquake to hit Baltimore was on August 23, 2011. That earthquake had a magnitude of 5.8 and was felt as far away as Boston and Toronto. Prior to that, the last significant earthquake to hit Baltimore was on April 24, 2002. That earthquake had a magnitude of 5.6 and was felt across the eastern United States.
Final Thoughts!
While earthquakes are relatively rare in Baltimore, they do happen from time to time. And while they’re usually small and insignificant, it’s always good to be prepared—just in case. By following the tips above, you can ensure your safety in the event of an earthquake. Stay safe out there!