An estimated 4.4-magnitude earthquake shook buildings across western Britain, near Swansea, just after 2.30 pm. A total of 10 million people from Cornwall to Blackpool said they could feel a strong quake that rattled buildings, caused lights to flicker and even knocked off furniture and other objects in households.
Do we need to set up an #earthquake disaster fund for those affected in Wales? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/FXdG1i2ax9
— Ghost Enigma (@GhostEnigma13) 17 февраля 2018 г.
Swansea University, which is reportedly within 8 kilometers from the quake epicenter, was evacuated following the alert.
Thoughts and prayers with the people of Wales after the #earthquake #TooSoon
— Benjy T (@johnsbrotherben) 17 февраля 2018 г.
In the aftermath, South Wales Police urged people not to phone the emergency services unless they had any damage or injuries to report.
There has been a minor earthquake throughout South Wales….no need for you to contact the Emergency Services unless you have something to report ie:- injuries or damage. Hope this sets you minds at rest SWP
— South Wales Police (@swpolice) 17 февраля 2018 г.
The British Geological Survey's website has been under increased pressure in the wake of the event.
It wrote on Twitter: "We are in the process of analysing data for the felt report of a tremor in the SW of England. As soon as we know more we’ll let you know."
It was the strongest earthquake to be felt in Britain in the recent time. The largest known quake ever recorded — of 6.1 magnitude — happened in the North Sea, near the Dogger Bank, in 1931, but was reported to have caused minor damage then.
READ MORE: WATCH: Powerful Jolt in Mexico Sparks Panic Forcing Thousands to Stay Outdoors
