Understand
Silverdale in Lancashire records 25 earthquakes in a single year
Overview
The Lancashire village of Silverdale has experienced 25 earthquakes over a 12-month period, including a 3.2 magnitude tremor in December felt up to 12 miles away. Seismologists from the British Geological Survey are monitoring the area, noting that earthquakes in the UK typically occur in clusters, and while western parts of Britain are considered earthquake hotspots, a significantly larger event is unlikely.
Key points
- Silverdale recorded 25 earthquakes over the past 12 months.
- The largest tremor occurred in December with a magnitude of 3.2 and was felt up to 12 miles away.
- British Geological Survey seismologists state that earthquakes in the UK often happen in clusters with aftershocks.
- Western parts of England, north-west Wales, and western Scotland are identified as UK earthquake hotspots.
- Experts consider a larger earthquake in the area to be very unlikely, though residents remain concerned.