Residents across parts of Maryland woke up to a surprising jolt early Tuesday morning after a Maryland earthquake today rattled portions of the state and neighboring regions. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed that the earthquake struck near central Maryland, registering a preliminary magnitude of 3.2 on the Richter scale.
While the quake was considered mild, it was strong enough to be felt across several counties, sparking thousands of reports from startled residents. Fortunately, no injuries or significant damage have been reported at this time.
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Details of the Maryland Earthquake
According to data from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the tremor occurred at approximately 6:41 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. The quake’s epicenter was located roughly 7 miles northwest of Annapolis, at a shallow depth of 5 kilometers (about 3 miles).
The light earthquake sent tremors across the region, including parts of Baltimore, Washington, D.C., northern Virginia, and southern Pennsylvania. Within minutes, social media users began posting about the shaking, reporting light vibrations and objects moving on shelves.
Some residents described the sensation as a “quick thud,” while others said it felt like a “truck hitting the building.” Despite initial confusion, officials quickly confirmed it was indeed a minor seismic event and not related to construction or military activity.
Areas That Felt the Tremor
The mild Maryland earthquake today was felt across a broad area due to the state’s dense population and shallow ground conditions. Reports came from communities including:
- Baltimore City and County
- Annapolis and Anne Arundel County
- Prince George’s County
- Montgomery County
- Howard County
- Northern Virginia suburbs such as Alexandria and Arlington
Residents in parts of Delaware and Pennsylvania also reported brief shaking, though USGS classified the intensity as Level III (weak) on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale.
Although the quake was relatively minor, it was enough to catch many Marylanders off guard — a reminder that earthquakes, while uncommon in the Mid-Atlantic, are not impossible.
Officials’ Response
State emergency officials, including the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), immediately began assessing the situation. Within an hour, the agency released a statement confirming that no reports of structural damage or injuries had been received.
Governor Wes Moore addressed the event later in the morning, reassuring residents that emergency crews were monitoring aftershock potential and verifying infrastructure safety.
“While this morning’s earthquake was minor, it’s a good reminder that Maryland, like many states, can experience seismic activity,” Moore said. “We encourage residents to stay calm, check on neighbors, and know basic earthquake safety.”
Local fire departments and 911 centers also reported a surge in non-emergency calls as residents sought confirmation of what they had felt.
Historical Context: How Rare Are Earthquakes in Maryland?
Although Maryland is not typically associated with earthquakes, mild tremors have occurred in the region several times over the past century. The state lies within a stable intraplate region, meaning it’s located away from major tectonic boundaries but can still experience stress within the Earth’s crust.
Notable past quakes include:
- July 2010: A magnitude 3.6 earthquake centered near Gaithersburg rattled the Washington metropolitan area.
- August 2011: The 5.8-magnitude Mineral, Virginia earthquake caused noticeable shaking across Maryland and the East Coast, even damaging parts of the Washington National Cathedral.
- November 2017: A 2.7-magnitude quake struck near Rising Sun, Maryland, with minor vibrations reported in Delaware.
Today’s quake, while smaller than these past events, reminds residents that the Mid-Atlantic region isn’t completely free from seismic risk.
What Causes Earthquakes in Maryland?
Experts say that quakes like the Maryland earthquake today are typically caused by shifts in ancient fault lines buried deep beneath the Earth’s surface. These faults are remnants of older geologic systems that occasionally release pressure.
Unlike California’s active fault zones, Maryland’s quakes are intraplate earthquakes, meaning they occur inside a tectonic plate rather than along its edges. Because of the state’s geology, even small tremors can travel long distances, allowing weak quakes to be felt across several states.
Dr. Karen Blackwell, a geophysicist at the University of Maryland, explained:
“These earthquakes are not unusual, but they do remind us that even stable regions can experience seismic activity from time to time. The key is preparation and awareness.”
What Residents Should Do During a Quake
Even though quakes in Maryland are rare and usually mild, experts urge residents to understand basic earthquake safety steps.
If you feel shaking:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Get under a sturdy table or desk and protect your head and neck.
- Stay Indoors. Do not run outside — debris from buildings poses the greatest risk.
- Avoid Windows and Heavy Objects. Move away from mirrors, shelves, and hanging fixtures.
- If Outdoors, Stay Clear of Buildings. Find an open area free from power lines and trees.
- Check for Hazards Afterward. Inspect your home for gas leaks, cracks, or electrical issues.
These guidelines apply even for minor tremors, as safety habits are best formed before larger events occur.
Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Within minutes of the tremor, Maryland residents took to X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram to share their experiences. Hashtags like #MarylandEarthquake and #Earthquake2025 began trending regionally.
Most posts described the quake as brief and startling but not alarming. One Baltimore resident wrote, “I thought my cat jumped on the dresser — turns out it was an earthquake!” Another user in Annapolis joked, “Maryland trying to be California for five seconds.”
Social media also helped emergency services track real-time data. The USGS “Did You Feel It?” system received over 8,000 public reports within the first two hours, confirming widespread but light shaking across central Maryland.
No Major Disruptions Reported
Despite the initial confusion, operations across Maryland remained largely unaffected.
- BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport reported no flight delays or infrastructure issues.
- MARC and Amtrak train services continued normally after safety inspections.
- Schools and government offices opened as usual, with brief reminders about safety procedures.
The Maryland Transportation Authority also confirmed that key bridges and tunnels — including the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Baltimore Harbor Tunnel — were inspected and cleared for normal use.
Experts Say Larger Quakes Are Unlikely
Following the event, seismologists emphasized that there is no evidence suggesting a larger earthquake will follow. Small tremors in this region rarely lead to significant aftershocks.
However, the quake serves as a timely reminder for residents to review preparedness plans. The Maryland Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping emergency kits with water, flashlights, batteries, and basic supplies ready at all times — not just for earthquakes, but also for hurricanes, floods, or winter storms.
Conclusion: A Gentle Reminder of Nature’s Unpredictability
The Maryland earthquake today was a mild but memorable event for many residents. While no damage or injuries occurred, it served as a clear reminder that even areas far from major fault lines can experience the earth’s movement.
As officials continue to monitor the region, experts encourage awareness and preparedness — simple habits that make a difference when nature surprises us.
Did you feel this morning’s tremor? Share your experience and location in the comments below.