Magnitude 2.0 Earthquake Reported Near Dover-Foxcroft, Maine

Why this matters: While a magnitude 2.0 earthquake is unlikely to cause significant damage, it serves as a reminder that seismic activity does occur in Maine. Understanding the frequency and location of these events helps residents prepare and stay informed.

On Sunday morning, residents near Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, experienced a minor earthquake. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the magnitude 2.0 tremor struck at 2:52 a.m., with an epicenter approximately 4.3 miles east-northeast of Dover-Foxcroft. The quake originated at a depth of about 6 miles (9.5 kilometers).

Maine has a history of minor seismic events. The USGS reports that more than 150 earthquakes have been recorded in the state since 1997. These quakes tend to cluster near Passamaquoddy Bay, the Dover-Foxcroft-Milo area, and southwestern Maine. While most are small, Maine has felt larger earthquakes originating from other regions, such as Plattsburg, New York, and Quebec City.

Earthquake clusters are not uncommon. For example, between January 27 and February 2, 2024, three quakes ranging from magnitude 2.0 to 3.8 occurred off York Harbor. Another cluster occurred near Jonesboro between August 11 and September 1, 2022, with approximately nine earthquakes ranging from magnitude 1.7 to 3.

Actionable Takeaways:

Maine experiences relatively frequent minor earthquakes. Over 150 have been recorded since 1997.

The strongest recent earthquake was a magnitude 4.5 quake in East Waterboro on October 16, 2012.

Earthquake clusters are most common near Passamaquoddy Bay, the Dover-Foxcroft-Milo area, and southwestern Maine.

Do you think Maine will experience a larger earthquake in the future? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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