ATLANTA (AP) – A 4.1-magnitude earthquake shook the southern United States on Saturday morning, waking up families and rattling homes as far as Atlanta. The tremors were felt across portions of Tennessee and neighboring states, but fortunately, no injuries or major damage were reported.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake originated shortly after 9 a.m. EDT, about 12 miles northeast of Decatur, Tennessee. The epicenter was located in a rural area, but the effects were felt in cities and towns throughout the region.

Residents in Atlanta, which is approximately 150 miles from the epicenter, reported feeling the ground shake and hearing loud rumbling noises. Many took to social media to share their experiences and express their surprise at the rare occurrence.

“I never thought I would experience an earthquake in Atlanta! It was scary but also kind of exciting,” tweeted one resident.

Others shared videos of their homes shaking and objects falling off shelves. Despite the initial shock, many were relieved that the earthquake did not cause any significant damage.

The USGS reported that the earthquake had a depth of 9.3 miles, which is considered shallow. This means that the tremors were more likely to be felt on the surface, but also less likely to cause serious damage.

The earthquake was also felt in parts of Alabama, Kentucky, and North Carolina. In Nashville, Tennessee, residents reported feeling a slight shaking, but no damage was reported.

Earthquakes are not uncommon in the southern United States, but they are typically smaller in magnitude and less frequent than in other parts of the country. The last major earthquake to hit the region was a 5.8-magnitude quake in Virginia in 2011.

Despite the rarity of earthquakes in the south, the USGS has warned that the region is not immune to the potential for larger and more damaging earthquakes. The New Madrid Seismic Zone, which stretches from Illinois to Arkansas, is considered a high-risk area for earthquakes.

In light of this recent earthquake, officials are reminding residents to be prepared for future seismic activity. This includes having an emergency plan in place and securing heavy objects in homes and buildings.

The earthquake also serves as a reminder of the importance of earthquake preparedness for businesses and organizations. Many companies in the south may not have considered the potential for earthquakes in their emergency plans, but this event serves as a wake-up call to be proactive in preparing for all types of disasters.

Despite the initial shock and disruption caused by the earthquake, the overall response has been positive. Many residents are grateful that the earthquake was not more severe and are taking the opportunity to educate themselves on earthquake safety.

As the region continues to recover from the effects of this earthquake, it is important to remember that disasters can strike at any time. It is crucial for individuals, families, and communities to be prepared and work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all.

In the end, this earthquake serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the southern United States. Despite facing unexpected challenges, the region will continue to come together and overcome any obstacles that come its way.