BREAKING: Earthquake Strikes Great Smoky Mountains—Tremors Felt Across Mountain Range Just Now
In a startling geological event that sent shockwaves across the southeastern United States, a powerful earthquake struck the Great Smoky Mountains region just moments ago, rattling homes, startling wildlife, and sending tremors through communities from Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Asheville, North Carolina.
Epicenter and Magnitude
According to preliminary reports from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake registered a magnitude of 5.2, with the epicenter located just north of Clingmans Dome, one of the highest points in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The tremor struck at 3:27 PM local time, originating at a depth of approximately 11 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.
While seismic activity is not uncommon in the Eastern Tennessee Seismic Zone, quakes of this magnitude are rare, and early estimates mark this as one of the strongest recorded in the Smoky Mountains area in over 40 years.
Widespread Tremors Felt
Reports are pouring in from residents and tourists across the Smokies and beyond. In Gatlinburg, people described sudden jolts and rattling windows that lasted up to 15 seconds.
“The whole cabin shook—I thought a tree had fallen on the roof,” said Kate Morrison, a visitor from Ohio staying near Pigeon Forge.
“It was like a heavy truck rolled right under our feet,” added Jason Little, a park ranger near Cades Cove.
Tremors were also felt as far away as Knoxville, Chattanooga, and even parts of western North Carolina and north Georgia.
Damage and Safety Concerns
While no fatalities or serious injuries have been reported so far, emergency services are on high alert. Structural assessments are underway in towns such as Sevierville and Bryson City, where minor cracks in older buildings have been spotted.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation is inspecting several bridges and roadways for possible damage, particularly along U.S. Route 441, which cuts through the national park.
In the immediate aftermath, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Service has temporarily closed several trails and campgrounds until safety inspections are complete. Park officials urge all hikers and backcountry campers to check in at the nearest ranger station or visitor center.
Wildlife Disruption & Natural Impact
Several hikers reported startled animals, including deer and black bears, reacting nervously following the quake. A temporary rockslide was also confirmed on Newfound Gap Road, but no injuries occurred and crews are already on the scene.
The earthquake also caused temporary disruptions in cellular networks, with brief outages reported across mountain valleys due to overwhelmed towers and precautionary shutdowns.
Aftershock Risk
USGS officials have issued a moderate risk for aftershocks in the coming hours and days, especially within a 50-mile radius of the epicenter. Residents are urged to stay cautious, secure loose items at home, and have emergency kits on hand.
Officials React
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued a public statement just minutes ago:
“Our emergency teams are fully activated and closely monitoring the situation in the Smoky Mountains region. We are thankful at this moment for the lack of serious injuries and will continue to ensure the safety of all Tennesseans and visitors.”
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper also pledged support for cross-border coordination and safety assessments.
What to Do Now
Residents and travelers are advised to:
- Stay away from damaged structures or unstable ground.
- Be alert to aftershocks.
- Follow guidance from emergency officials and the National Park Service. Report any gas leaks or infrastructure damage to local authorities.
This is a developing story. Stay with us for live updates as seismic experts and first responders continue their assessments in one of America’s most beloved mountain regions.
