Wales has been recently hit by its first mainland earthquake of the year, with the epicentre located in Ridleywood, Wrexham, on February 22. The British Geological Survey (BGS) reported that the earthquake had a magnitude of 1.6 at a depth of 7km and occurred at 2.46am. Surprisingly, there were no reported incidents of anyone feeling the quake. This earthquake marks the first of 2025 to be recorded on mainland Wales. Preceding this event, an earthquake was recorded in the Irish Sea on January 13, approximately 20km west of Aberdaron, with a magnitude of 1.3. Additionally, during the Christmas period, another earthquake struck North Wales with the epicentre located in Corris, Gwynedd. This earthquake was recorded at a depth of 4km with a magnitude of 1.0, occurring on Boxing Day.
In a series of seismic events in September 2024 in Wales, the first earthquake hit Anglesey on September 2, with the epicentre in Llangaffo. The BGS reported a depth of 1.3km and a magnitude of 1.3, but it was not widely felt. However, a single household in Niwbwrdh, 2km from the epicentre, reported ‘a slight shaking and a faint rumbling’. The second earthquake occurred on September 7 in Pant Plas, Gwynedd, 5km south of Penygroes, also with a magnitude of 1.3 at a depth of 15km. Subsequently, these incidents marked the fifth and sixth seismic events in the area over the past nine months.
The initial earthquake took place in Carmel, Gwynedd, on December 20, 2023, buried 19km deep with a magnitude of 1.8. It was felt as far as two miles away at Rhydlios. Another notable earthquake struck Eryri on February 8 of the previous year, leaving one resident likening the sensation to ‘a roar like a strong wind’. Joining this sequence of events, an earthquake was recorded near Foel Grach in the Carneddau mountains, just 2km below the surface. These occurrences demonstrate the seismic activity experienced in Wales over recent years.
The residents of Wales have shown resilience and calm in the face of these natural phenomena, with no reported incidents of damage or harm caused by the recent earthquakes. The BGS plays a vital role in monitoring and recording these events, providing valuable data to understand the earth’s activity in the region. It is essential for residents to stay informed and prepared for any future seismic events that may occur. The dedicated efforts of organisations like the BGS contribute to ensuring the safety and well-being of communities in Wales.
As we reflect on these seismic events, it is a reminder of the dynamic nature of our planet and the importance of being vigilant and resilient in the face of natural occurrences. By staying informed and prepared, residents can navigate such events with confidence and assurance. The record of earthquakes in Wales serves as a testament to the region’s geological activity and the need for ongoing monitoring and research in this field. As we move forward, let us continue to prioritise safety, vigilance, and community resilience in the face of natural phenomena.