4.0 Magnitude Earthquake Rumbles Through Tewksbury

UPDATED 8:52 p.m.

(Editor's note: The USGS originally measured the earthquake as a 4.6 magnitude. As of 8:30 p.m. it was downgraded to 4.0 magnitude. The article has been updated accordingly.)

An earthquake centered in Maine was felt throughout the Merrimack
Valley Tuesday evening.

The US Geological Survey reports the earthquake was measured at a 4.0 magnitude with an epicenter west of Hollis Center, Maine.

The quake struck at 7:12 p.m. The depth of the quake was approximately 3.1 miles.

Police Chief Timothy Sheehan said a Code Red announcement will be made shortly.

He also asked that 911 be reserved for true emergency situations and that the department business line 978-640-4381, be used for regular inquiries.

The quake struck as a Board of Selectmen meeting was going on in Town Hall. The building shook for approximately five seconds, as did Police Headquarters. Residents all over town reported their homes shaking violently, though no damage or injuries have been reported.

"Right now we're just looking to gather more information," said Sheehan. "People don't need to panic. We'll get a Red Alert notifcation out soon."

In a press release, Gov. Deval Patrick said the quake had done nothing more than grab residents' attention.

"Many Massachusetts residents felt the effects of an earthquake tonight. According to MEMA, which is monitoring events and has briefed me, the quake was centered some 30 miles outside of Portland, Maine," said Patrick. "So far, we have no reports of injury or damage in Massachusetts. MEMA will continue to monitor the situation closely. Residents should use caution if they encounter any damage and take a minute to check in on neighbors, family and friends."

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