Rare earthquake reported in Marshville, near Charlotte, US Geological Survey says

A rare earthquake was reported near Marshville, North Carolina, about a 35-mile drive east from uptown Charlotte, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

It was a 2.0 magnitude, which is below the threshold for damage.

The quake was recorded just after 2 a.m. on Friday, March 14, and was centered about 3.1 miles south-southwest of Marshville. The source of the disturbance was just over a mile deep, experts say.

As of 9 a.m., there were no reports of anyone feeling the quake.

Marshville is located along U.S. 74, has a population of about 2,600 people and is best known as the birthplace of country music legend Randy Travis.

/Before Friday, no earthquakes had been reported in Marshville in at least the past 25 years, USGS data shows.

Earthquakes of 2.5 or lower are typically not felt by people, experts say. Once above 2.5, people feel shaking and minor damage can occur.

Significant damage to buildings and structures begins to happen when the magnitude tops 5.5, experts say.

What to do in an earthquake

Earthquakes’ sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. They can happen anywhere, but they’re most common in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico and Washington, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

If an earthquake strikes, it’s best to protect yourself right away. Here are tips from experts:

• If you’re in a car: Pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.

• If you’re in bed: Turn face-down and cover your head with a pillow.

• If you’re outdoors: Stay away from buildings. Don’t go inside.

• If you’re inside: Stay and don’t run outdoors. Stay away from doorways.

The best way to protect yourself during an earthquake is to drop, cover and hold on, officials say.

“Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy,” officials say. “If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.”

Be sure to cover your head and neck with your arms, and crawl under a sturdy table if possible. If no shelter is available, crawl to an interior wall away from windows.

Once under a table, officials say you should hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it.

“There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines,” officials say. “Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.”

This story was originally published March 14, 2025 at 10:04 AM with the headline "Rare earthquake reported in Marshville, near Charlotte, US Geological Survey says."