Overnight, two earthquakes were recorded around north Georgia’s massive Lake Lanier, leading dozens of residents to report feeling the tremors. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported on Friday, June 7, that the first quake registered a magnitude of 2.5 at approximately 11:15 p.m. Thursday, followed by a second quake of magnitude 2.1 about two hours later. Both earthquakes were centered at the southern end of the 39,000-acre lake: the initial quake near Buford and the subsequent one about two miles southwest in Sugar Hill.
The stronger of the two quakes originated from bedrock approximately 2.5 miles deep, with more than 130 people reporting weak shaking to the USGS. The majority of these reports came from Buford, while nearly 50 individuals in Cumming, located about 12 miles northeast, also felt the tremors. The 2.1 magnitude quake was felt by a dozen people according to the USGS.
Typically, earthquakes are not felt until they exceed a magnitude of 2.5, which is also the threshold at which minor damage can start to occur. Historical data from the USGS indicates that earthquakes are relatively rare in this area. Only one other quake, a magnitude 2.2, has been recorded since January 1990, occurring in 2020, with over 70 people reporting they felt that quake.
Lake Lanier was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers when they built Buford Dam, which flooded 47 miles of riverbed. The lake features 692 miles of shoreline and reaches depths of over 200 feet. The lake serves as a significant water reservoir and recreational spot for the region, attracting millions of visitors each year.
In the event of an earthquake, there are several safety protocols recommended by experts to protect yourself. Earthquakes’ sudden, rapid shaking can lead to secondary hazards like fires, tsunamis, landslides, or avalanches. While they can happen anywhere, they are most common in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico, and Washington, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
If you are in a car during an earthquake, it is best to pull over and stop, setting your parking brake. If you are in bed, turn face-down and cover your head with a pillow. If you find yourself outdoors, stay away from buildings and do not go inside. If you are indoors, stay put and avoid running outside, as well as staying away from doorways.
The primary strategy for protecting yourself during an earthquake is to drop, cover, and hold on. Officials advise dropping to your hands and knees and holding onto something sturdy. If you are using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, ensure the wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops. Cover your head and neck with your arms, and if possible, crawl under a sturdy table. If no shelter is available, crawl to an interior wall away from windows. Once under a table, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it.
Post-earthquake, there can be serious hazards such as structural damage to buildings, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines. Experts recommend being prepared for aftershocks, which typically follow the main shock of an earthquake. During an aftershock, you should be ready to drop, cover, and hold on.
Preparing for an earthquake also involves having an emergency kit and a family communication plan. Your emergency kit should include essential items like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, medications, and copies of important documents. Knowing how to turn off utilities in your home, such as gas, water, and electricity, can also prevent further hazards after an earthquake.
Community preparedness is equally important. Local governments and organizations often conduct drills and provide resources to help residents prepare for earthquakes. Participating in these drills and staying informed about the risks and response plans in your area can significantly enhance your safety.
