Biggest earthquake in 30 years hits western Scotland

The largest earthquake to hit the west Highlands of Scotland in more than 30 years was felt on August 4, 2017 just before 3.45pm.

The M3.8 tremor rattled the area of Moidart and was the biggest quake since a M4.1 jolt near Oban in September 1986.

The Friday’s earthquake was felt widely across the west of Scotland.

Tweets report from 2 earthquakes and a loud rumble:

Prelim EQ data: UK Earthquake alert: M 3.4: MOIDART, WEST HIGHLAND https://t.co/CVxZeLtKHJ

— BGS (@BritGeoSurvey) August 4, 2017

Wow! Felt like an #earthquake here in #Ardnamurchan, 3.43pm followed by another at 3.45pm!! Anyone else feel it?

— Jamie McIntyre (@_JamieMcIntyre) August 4, 2017

Another wrote: “Just experienced 2 earthquake tremors here in Scotland. Never felt anything like that, like the ground beneath us was exploding. Terrifying!”

I’m sure we’ve had an earth tremor in #Kilchoan. Twice. House shook massively, cupboards contents shaking! #Ardnamurchan

— Gus MacLean (@GusMacLean1) August 4, 2017

The largest earthquake to hit Scotland was a M5.2 in Argyll in 1880.

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