Earthquake recorded near Lancaster University over Easter break

An earthquake occurred west of the M6 motorway near Lancaster University on Wednesday 16th April, according to the British Geology Survey (BGS). 

The earthquake reportedly had a magnitude of 1.0 on the Richter scale with a depth of three km downwards underground.

The quake took place at 02:50 am in the morning and was recorded by a seismograph.

Although earthquakes of 2.5 magnitude or less mostly go unnoticed, the BGS appealed for anyone who felt the quake to report it. It is unknown whether any such reports were made. Since the event in Bailrigg occurred, the BGS have recorded six other earthquakes across the north of England and Scotland.

Every year, at least several hundred earthquakes are found by the BGS, but most are too mild to be felt. Overall, millions of earthquakes at this magnitude take place globally every year.

The causes of earthquakes specifically in Britain are so far unclear. However, the British Geological Survey have described earthquakes as “regional compression caused by motion of the Earth’s tectonic plates, and uplift resulting from the melting of the ice sheets that covered many parts of Britain thousands of years ago”. The last significant British earthquake was in Cwmllynfell seven years ago with a 4.6 magnitude.

This is not the first time a seismic event has been recorded in Lancashire. On New Years’ Eve, a possible earthquake was reported by VolcanoDiscovery, when two people felt the “ground shaking” near Morecambe.

The last major Lancashire earthquake was in 2007 and measured 3.7 on the Richter Scale. Although many reportedly felt nothing, firefighters were called to the scene due to damaged buildings in Morecambe. However, the largest seismic event to take place in Lancaster was in 1835. It had a magnitude of 4.4 but apparently caused only minor damage. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that another earthquake on such a major scale will be taking place any time in Lancashire in the near future.