4.1 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Tennessee and Surrounding States, Felt as Far as Atlanta
On the morning of Saturday, May 10, 2025, a 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Greenback, Tennessee, roughly 30 miles south of Knoxville. The tremor, which occurred at approximately 9:04 a.m. EDT, sent shockwaves across the southeastern U.S., being felt in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and even parts of Atlanta.
Although moderate in size, the earthquake’s impact was widely felt due to the geology of the eastern United States, where seismic waves can travel long distances. Reports of shaking came in from thousands of residents, many describing it as a sharp jolt or rumble that lasted up to 10 seconds. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) received over 23,000 reports in the first hour after the quake.
Thankfully, no injuries or serious structural damage were reported. The Knoxville Fire Department and local police confirmed that all systems were functioning normally. According to the USGS, there is a 5% chance of a similar or stronger aftershock in the coming days, though such events remain unlikely.
The earthquake occurred within the East Tennessee Seismic Zone, a region known for regular low to moderate seismic activity. Since 1950, there have been at least 15 earthquakes of magnitude 4.0 or higher within 155 miles of Saturday’s epicenter. The largest on record in the region was a 4.7 magnitude event near Knoxville in 1973.
Many residents took to social media to share their experiences, with some initially mistaking the tremor for construction noise or a heavy truck passing by. Experts used the opportunity to remind the public about earthquake preparedness—even in areas not commonly associated with strong quakes.
Key safety tips include: drop, cover, and hold on during shaking; stay away from buildings if outside; and ensure emergency plans are in place and practiced regularly.
This unexpected quake is a strong reminder that natural events can strike anywhere, and staying prepared is always a wise choice.
