2.1 Magnitude Earthquake Recorded Near Trion Early Monday Morning

A small earthquake was recorded just outside Trion early Monday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The USGS says the magnitude 2.1 earthquake occurred at 2:34 AM Monday, August 24, with the epicenter located approximately 1 kilometer, or six-tenths of a mile, northwest of Trion.

The earthquake was recorded at a depth of approximately 10.6 kilometers, or 6.6 miles below the surface. The USGS lists the center of the earthquake at 34.551 degrees north latitude and 85.319 degrees west longitude. The event has been reviewed by the USGS rather than remaining an automatic preliminary detection.

As of Monday afternoon, the USGS had no reports from residents saying they felt the earthquake, and there were no reports of damage associated with the event.

Monday morning’s earthquake comes just two days after another small earthquake was recorded in Northwest Georgia.

On Saturday, August 22, the USGS recorded a magnitude 2.4 earthquake about 10 kilometers, or roughly six miles, west-northwest of Resaca. That earthquake occurred at 4:54 AM EDT at a depth of approximately 9.4 kilometers, or 5.8 miles.

USGS data indicates the Trion earthquake is the only earthquake of magnitude 1.5 or greater recorded in Georgia during the past 24 hours, while the Trion and Resaca events are the two such earthquakes recorded in the state during the past seven days.

Residents who believe they felt Monday morning’s earthquake can submit a “Did You Feel It?” report to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Free Cave Geology Program and Guided Caving Trip Planned in LaFayette

Outdoor enthusiasts will have an opportunity to learn more about the caves beneath northwest Georgia during a free presentation and guided caving trip hosted by The Outpost and the City of LaFayette Parks and Recreation.

The first program in The Outpost’s new outdoor-focused speaker series will be held Thursday, July 23, at 6 p.m. at the MARS Theatre in downtown LaFayette.

The presentation will feature Eric Crisp, a Walker County resident, professional geologist and experienced caver. Crisp will discuss cave geology, the relationship between rock, water and time, and the natural processes that have created the extensive cave systems found throughout the region.

Organizers say the program is designed to help participants better understand the geological features located beneath northwest Georgia and why the area’s network of caves is considered unique.

A free guided caving trip will follow on Saturday, July 25. The trip will also be led by Crisp and is open to both beginners and experienced cavers. Transportation will be provided.

Space for the caving trip is limited, and advance registration is required. Anyone interested in reserving a spot should call The Outpost at 706-639-1589.

The July 23 presentation at the MARS Theatre is free and open to the public.