Mild Earthquake Shakes Outer Banks, North Carolina — No Injuries Reported
May 26, 2025 — Nags Head, NC
In an unusual turn of geological activity, a mild earthquake struck the Outer Banks of North Carolina early Monday morning, shaking homes and startling residents but causing no significant damage or injuries. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake measured 3.9 on the Richter scale, centered approximately 8 miles offshore near Kill Devil Hills at a depth of 7 kilometers.
The tremor occurred at approximately 5:14 a.m., waking early risers and prompting a wave of social media posts as residents described books falling off shelves, windows rattling, and dogs barking uncontrollably. While North Carolina is not typically known for seismic activity—especially not in its coastal barrier islands—Monday’s event reminded many just how unpredictable nature can be.
“I thought it was a big truck passing at first, then I realized everything was shaking, including the dishes,” said local resident Angela Morris of Nags Head. “It only lasted a few seconds, but it felt like forever.”
Emergency management officials were quick to respond, deploying local crews to inspect bridges, ferry routes, and coastal infrastructure. So far, no major structural damage has been reported. The North Carolina Department of Transportation confirmed that major thoroughfares including U.S. Highway 158 and the Wright Memorial Bridge remain open and structurally sound.
According to Dr. Neil Carter, a seismologist with East Carolina University, the quake was likely the result of intraplate stress along ancient fault lines that still lie dormant beneath the Atlantic Coastal Plain. “The Outer Banks lie far from tectonic plate boundaries, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to the occasional jolt,” Carter explained. “What makes this event unique is the location—most of North Carolina’s previous earthquakes have occurred inland, closer to the Piedmont region.”
Despite the surprise, there was no tsunami threat associated with this offshore quake. The USGS and NOAA both confirmed that the quake’s magnitude and depth were insufficient to generate ocean disturbances.
Many locals, while shaken, expressed relief that the quake wasn’t stronger. “We’re used to hurricanes out here, not earthquakes,” said Dare County Commissioner Rachel Gomez. “But it’s a good reminder that we need to be prepared for all kinds of emergencies.”
By mid-morning, life had largely returned to normal along the coast. Schools opened on time, and tourists began their usual Memorial Day beach excursions, albeit with stories of “the quake” fresh on their minds.
The event has sparked renewed discussion about emergency preparedness in the region. Officials have encouraged residents to review safety protocols for earthquakes, despite their rarity in eastern North Carolina. The Dare County Emergency Services office announced plans to distribute updated emergency readiness materials over the coming weeks.
While Monday’s quake may go down as a geological anomaly, it left an impression on both scientists and citizens alike—reminding everyone that even in the most tranquil of coastal towns, the Earth can still surprise us.
