**10th Anniversary of the Virginia Earthquake** **August 23, 2021 -** On August 23, 2011, a magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck the Piedmont region of Virginia, causing widespread shaking throughout the eastern United States. The epicenter of the quake was located in Louisa County, approximately nine miles south of Mineral. The earthquake occurred at 1:51:04 p.m. ET and was felt by millions of people in Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and even as far away as Massachusetts and Canada. The earthquake caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure in Virginia, including collapsed chimneys, cracked walls, and broken windows. Several roads and bridges were also damaged, disrupting transportation in the region. Despite the widespread shaking, there were no fatalities reported from the earthquake. However, there were several injuries, including a number of people who were struck by falling debris. The 2011 Virginia earthquake was the largest to hit the eastern United States in over a century. It was a reminder of the seismic hazard that exists in this region, even though earthquakes are relatively rare. Ten years later, the Virginia earthquake remains a significant event in the history of the region. It has led to increased awareness of seismic hazards and has促使了new building codes and earthquake preparedness measures to be implemented. (see attached image)
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