Dyersburg, TN – A minor earthquake struck northwestern Tennessee on Wednesday, with residents near the Mississippi River reporting mild shaking.
According to the New Madrid Seismic Network and the University of Memphis Center for Earthquake Research, the 2.8 magnitude quake occurred at 8:23 p.m. UTC (3:23 p.m. CDT) and was centered approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) west-northwest of Dyersburg. The earthquake had a depth of 9.9 kilometers (6.2 miles).
Although the tremor was not strong enough to cause significant damage, several residents in the area reported feeling the quake. The U.S. Geological Survey’s “Did You Feel It?” program received multiple responses indicating light shaking in parts of northwest Tennessee and nearby areas in Missouri and Arkansas.
The affected region sits near the New Madrid Seismic Zone, a historically active fault line responsible for some of the most powerful earthquakes in U.S. history. While Wednesday’s quake was minor, it serves as a reminder of the area’s seismic risk.
Officials encourage residents to stay informed about earthquake preparedness, including securing heavy furniture and knowing emergency response plans. No injuries or damages have been reported at this time.
For more information on regional seismic activity, residents can visit the U.S. Geological Survey or the University of Memphis Center for Earthquake Research and Information.
