A minor earthquake registering a magnitude of 2.0 occurred on November 30, 2025, at a depth of 6.2 kilometers beneath Surry County, North Carolina. The tremor was reported at 12:11 UTC, which corresponds to 7:11 AM local time. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the event shortly after it happened, with the epicenter located at coordinates 36.5047°N latitude and 80.9152°W longitude.
The seismic activity was faint, classified at intensity level II on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, indicating very weak shaking. Despite its occurrence, there was little impact, with only one participant reporting a vague sensation of rattling. The closest town to the epicenter was Galax, Virginia, situated approximately 17.4 kilometers (11 miles) to the north.
Weather conditions at the time of the quake featured light snow and a temperature around -0.3°C (31°F) with high humidity levels. The earthquake released an estimated 6.3 x 10^7 joules of seismic energy, equivalent to about 17.5 kilowatt hours.
While earthquakes of this magnitude are generally not felt by most individuals, the geological occurrence serves as a reminder of the active seismic nature of certain regions in the United States. Scientists continue to monitor seismic activity to better understand these natural phenomena and enhance the resilience of communities against higher-magnitude events in the future. Reports and observations from local residents contribute invaluable data for seismic research, fostering a deeper understanding of earthquake behavior and its implications for safety.