On February 21, 1916, North Carolina experienced the most powerful earthquake ever recorded within its borders. The quake, which had a magnitude of 5.2, struck near Skyland, a town south of Asheville. The tremors were felt as far as Norfolk, Virginia, and caused widespread damage and panic in western North Carolina.
The Skyland Earthquake of 1916
The Skyland earthquake occurred at 6:39 p.m. on a Monday evening, when many people were at home or in public places. The shaking lasted for about 30 seconds, and was followed by several aftershocks. According to the Earthquake History of North Carolina, presented by Dr. Kenneth B. Taylor, the state geologist, the quake toppled chimneys, broke windows, cracked walls, and shifted houses off their foundations. Some people reported hearing loud noises, like explosions or thunder, during the quake. Many people ran outside in fear, while others prayed or hid under furniture.
The quake also disrupted communication and transportation systems. Telegraph and telephone lines were severed, and trains were delayed or canceled. Some roads and bridges were damaged or blocked by landslides. The Weather Bureau reported damage in 59 cities and towns in North Carolina and South Carolina.
The Skyland earthquake was the largest of a series of quakes that occurred in the region between 1913 and 1917. The cause of these quakes is not well understood, but some geologists suggest that they were related to the ancient faults and fractures in the Appalachian Mountains, which were formed by the collision of tectonic plates millions of years ago.
The Impact and Legacy of the Skyland Earthquake
The Skyland earthquake was one of the most significant natural disasters in North Carolina’s history. It drew national and international attention, and prompted scientific investigations and public education efforts. The quake also inspired stories and legends, such as the origin of the name Rumbling Bald Mountain, a peak near Lake Lure that was said to have rumbled during the quake.
The Skyland earthquake also revealed the vulnerability of North Carolina to seismic hazards, and the need for better preparedness and mitigation measures. Although the quake did not cause any fatalities, it injured several people and inflicted considerable property damage. The total economic loss was estimated at $300,000, which is equivalent to about $7.5 million today.
Since 1916, North Carolina has experienced several other earthquakes, but none as strong as the Skyland quake. The most recent one was a 5.1 magnitude quake that hit near Sparta, North Carolina, on August 9, 2020. This quake was felt across several states, and caused minor damage and injuries.
Conclusion
The Skyland earthquake of 1916 was the biggest earthquake in the history of North Carolina, and one of the most memorable events in the state’s past. The quake shook the ground, the buildings, and the people of western North Carolina, and left a lasting impression on the culture and the landscape of the region. The quake also raised awareness of the seismic risk in North Carolina, and the importance of being ready for future quakes.