GARRARD COUNTY, Ky. — A 3.4 magnitude earthquake struck Garrard County on Sunday afternoon, catching residents off guard as their homes shook around 1 p.m. The Kentucky Geological Survey identified the epicenter near the Garrard-Madison County line, approximately eight miles underground. At least 375 locals reported feeling the tremor, but fortunately, there were no injuries or property damage reported.
Lancaster residents recounted their surprising experiences during the quake. Angela Smith described the sensation as akin to a train passing underneath her home. Brayden Smith initially believed that heavy trailers were causing the vibration, humorously commenting on how powerful the trailers must be to shake an entire house. Abby Bailey thought her home had been struck by a vehicle, while ten-year-old Ariel Wilson expressed her fear, stating, “It felt like we were jumping, like the house was going up and down, so it was a little scary.”
According to seismologist Seth Carpenter from the University of Kentucky, this earthquake was significant due to the rarity of seismic activity in the inner Bluegrass region. Interestingly, the quake occurred only a mile from an August 2023 magnitude 2.6 earthquake near Lancaster, prompting experts to further examine the area’s seismic patterns.
Brayden Smith added that the unusual nature of the event left many residents confused, as such occurrences are uncommon in Garrard County. Following the brief unsettling event, the community has returned to its normal rhythm. Angela Smith noted, “Nothing broke, it just shook the house and everybody ran outside, looked at each other, and went back in.”
Garrard County Emergency Management announced that the Department of Transportation is conducting inspections on major infrastructure, such as bridges and medical facilities, to ensure their safety. Updates regarding this earthquake will be posted on the Garrard County Emergency Management Facebook page.