The epicenter of the earthquake was reportedly near the intersection of West Old Mountain and Shannon Hill roads, shown here. Photo courtesy of Google Maps

A 2.2 magnitude earthquake hit Louisa County, Virginia around 9:40 p.m. Saturday night, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. This comes just over four years after a 5.8 magnitude quake hit the same area.

In addition to normal concerns about earthquakes — casualties, injuries and structural damage — a major concern in this case is the fact that Dominion Virginia Power has two nuclear reactors nearby in Mineral, Virginia. 

According to its website, the North Anna Power Station automatically shut down following a 5.8 magnitude earthquake on Aug. 23, 2011, at 1:51 p.m. The epicenter was approximately 11 miles west-southwest from the station. The units reportedly sustained no functional damage to safety related systems, components or structures. 

No information was posted about whether any actions were taken following this much less severe earthquake. 

Dominion’s website states: If an emergency occurs at North Anna Power Station, Dominion will immediately notify state and local emergency officials, who will promptly implement their emergency response plans. Federal officials also will be notified. Emergency sirens, located within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone around the power station, will be a primary means of alerting the public. 

By: KJ Mushung

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