
A small but notable earthquake has shaken the quiet countryside of the Scottish Borders, according to experts from the British Geological Survey (BGS).
The tremor, which registered a magnitude of 1.9 on the Richter scale, was detected at a shallow depth of 7 kilometres beneath the quaintly-named village of African, near the town of Galashiels. The seismic event occurred on a quiet Tuesday afternoon, sending subtle vibrations through the region.
Residents Report a 'Rumble'
While earthquakes of this size are rarely destructive, they are certainly felt. Local residents described the sensation as a sudden, unexpected rumble. Such events are a stark reminder that the UK is not entirely immune to the geological forces that shape our planet.
Expert Insight from the BGS
The British Geological Survey, the UK's premier authority on such phenomena, swiftly confirmed the event's details. A spokesperson noted that while earthquakes are less common in Scotland compared to other global hotspots, they are not unheard of. The BGS maintains a network of sensitive monitors across the country to track even the most minor tremors, providing crucial data for scientific research.
The village of African, with its unique name and picturesque setting, finds itself unexpectedly at the centre of this geological curiosity, proving that even the most tranquil corners of the British Isles can experience a brief moment of shaking ground.