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Old fault zone could be to blame for earthquake

Added on 27/02/2008

An old fault zone that has lain dormant for hundreds of millions years could be to blame for the earthquake that shook the UK early today...

Robert Holdsworth, Professor of Structural Geology and leader of the Reactivation Research Group at Durham University, commented this morning on the earthquake that rumbled through the UK at approximately 0100 GMT: "Most potentially damaging earthquakes like this occur near to plate boundaries such as the San Andreas Fault. The UK, however, lies in the interior of a plate so this is quite unusual.

"Although the causes and controls of UK seismicity are still poorly understood, it is possible that this earthquake reflects the reactivation of an old fault zone that has lain dormant for tens or hundreds of millions of years.

"The UK crust is riddled with such old faults which form an important part of our geological heritage. Perhaps this one is just reminding us that it is still there."

Professor of Geophysics at Durham University, Roger Searle, also contributed to the speculation. He said: “Although most earthquakes occur along tectonic plate boundaries such as the San Andreas Fault, Britain does experience a moderate level of seismic activity.

"This reflects minor adjustments to the stresses that occur in all plates.

"A ‘quake as large as the Market Rason quake is quite rare in Britain: It is almost 25 years since the last one of this size, which was in Wales. Enormous earthquakes like the 2004 Banda Aceh Boxing Day earthquake are about a million times more energetic than this one."

Data from the U.S. Geological Survey's Earthquake Hazards Program suggests that Durham received an intensity 3 tremor, causing only a light shake and no damage.

Elsewhere in Durham yesterday, high winds caused loose tiles to fall from the roof of the Philosophy Department on Old Elvet, seriously damaging a Range Rover and two other vehicles parked nearby. The road was closed for a short period.

Students of Hatfield College were also asked to avoid using a pathway alongside their chapel due to fears that the stone cross which sits on the top of the building was loose. It had reportedly been seen swaying slightly in the wind.

Meanwhile, Palace Green Library's computer room was forced to close for the afternoon due to health and safety reasons. The stained glass windows of the listed building were at risk of shattering - something that has occurred before in fierce winds.

Did you feel the earthquake? Have your say in the comments section below.

Alex Marshall

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