A significant tremor rattled parts of northwest England late on Thursday night, with dozens of residents reporting their homes shaking and being woken from their sleep.
Details of the Seismic Event
The British Geological Society (BGS) confirmed a 3.3-magnitude earthquake occurred at 11.23pm on Thursday 4 December 2025. The epicentre was located off the coast of Silverdale in north Lancashire, at a depth of approximately 1.86 miles (3km).
Seismologists reported the quake was felt across the South Lakes and Lancashire areas, mainly within a 20km radius. The effects were noted in locations including Kendal and Ulverston in neighbouring Cumbria, demonstrating the tremor's reach beyond the immediate epicentre.
Public Reaction and Unverified Reports
Social media was quickly filled with accounts from people who experienced the event. Descriptions of the sensation varied, with some comparing it to an underground explosion or vibration. One resident described the sound as similar to bricks falling or the roof collapsing, while another emphasised the power was sufficient to shake their entire house.
Although unverified, further reports suggested the tremors may have been felt at a greater distance. Some individuals commented on feeling shaking on the Fylde Peninsula, specifically mentioning the areas of Poulton-le-Fylde and Fleetwood, situated north of Blackpool.
One user on X, staying in a holiday rental in Carnforth, noted: "Whole place shook twice." Another local from the same area admitted they initially mistook the quake for a slamming door, only realising what had happened after being informed by others.
Context of UK Earthquakes
This event serves as a reminder that the UK experiences regular seismic activity. According to the BGS, between 200 and 300 earthquakes are detected annually across the country. Of these, typically 20 to 30 are strong enough to be felt by the public, with hundreds more minor tremors recorded only by sensitive instruments. The vast majority are small and cause no damage.
The most recent earthquake to exceed a magnitude of 3.3 prior to this event was recorded on 20 October near Loch Lyon in Perth and Kinross, which registered at 3.7 magnitude.
It is also noted that not all ground vibrations are natural. The BGS has previously registered tremors from sources such as crowd reactions during major football matches, including Liverpool FC goals and Scotland fans' celebrations.
The region has a history of tremors linked to human activity, notably from fracking operations. Lancashire was the site of a 2.1-magnitude tremor at Cuadrilla's site near Blackpool in 2019, which contributed to the subsequent ban on fracking in England.
