Community Corner

Earthquake Reported in Fairfax, Greater Metro Area

The earthquake was reported before 2 p.m.

A magnitude 5.9 earthquake was reported in the Northern Virginia area at about 2 p.m., the U.S. Geological Survey reports.

The earthquakes were reported from Washington, D.C. to Richmond and beyond, preliminary reports state.

The USGS is saying that the damage was "moderate" but the shaking was "very strong," at level 7 out of 10

Find out what's happening in Fairfax Stationwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Click here to follow live updates of what people are saying about the #VAquake.

Updated: 4:12 p.m
Fairfax County Public School officials report that some schools experienced damage after the quake. Those schools will be inspected today, said FCPS spokeswoman Mary Shaw. Schools with any extensive damage will be closed until the damage is repaired.

Find out what's happening in Fairfax Stationwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Updated: 3:53 p.m. 
A 2.8 magnitude aftershock was reported in the greater Virginia region just before 3 p.m., USGS reports.

Updated: 3:09 p.m.
Governor McDonnell released the following statement:


“We are currently working with federal, state and local agencies to assess the situation and determine if there has been any damage resulting from today’s 5.9 magnitude earthquake which was centered near Mineral in Louisa County. As part of this effort we are in touch with officials around the state. All indications are that emergency response plans and orderly evacuations have gone well today, and I thank all involved. In the wake of the earthquake, I would like to encourage all Virginians to check on neighbors and loved ones to ensure that everyone is safe and to continue cooperating with law enforcement and emergency responders working in your neighborhood. All resources of the Commonwealth have been put on alert to assist in any way necessary as we move forward.”


Updated: 2:39 p.m.
Expect significant delays on the Metro System this afternoon. Trains are operating at a reduced speed (15 miles per hour). Metro officials are conducting track inspections. No injuries were reported.

Updated: 2:38 p.m. From Virginia Railway Express (VRE): Due to earthquake, trains are running at reduced speeds. Afternoon service may be delayed. Amtrak has stopped all train movement until tunnels can be inspected. We will keep riders updated as to the inspection process.

Did you feel the quake? Tell us in the comments.


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