Folkestone earthquake marks 10 year anniversary in April
Published: 00:01, 01 April 2017
This month marks a decade since Folkestone shook during an earthquake that startled many people as they were in bed.
On Saturday, April 28, 2007 just before 8.20am, the ground rumbled in an earthquake that registered 4.3 on the Richter scale.
Folkestone and the surrounding villages were the main areas affected but the tremors were also felt in the Dover and Ashford areas.
The epicentre was believed to be less than 1km east of Folkestone.
The emergency services scrambled to help the main areas affected.
The areas around Blackbull Road and Canterbury Road were said to be the worst affected by fallen debris.
Many chimney pots crumbled, while others collapsed and smashed to pieces on the floor.
Height vehicles from Kent Fire and Rescue were sent out to secure properties, officers were patrolling the streets and the ambulance crews were called.
The windows of parked cars were smashed in some places but despite such an unexpected act of nature, there were no injuries reported.
The town came to a stop with barely any cars moving and many roads taped off, with police cordons to ensure people’s safety with an aftershock expected later that day.
The KM’s coverage at the time showed most people in the street watching the drama unfold and many were clutching their mobile phones as the news spread.
More people were on foot and were walking to friends and neighbours houses to hear their experiences and to make sure they were okay.
Those people whose homes sustained the worst damage were evacuated and had to take shelter at the Salvation Army in Canterbury Road.
It is a day that most people will remember and with the anniversary just weeks away Kent Online's sister paper the Folkestone & Hythe Express would like to hear of your memories.
If you have any pictures or personal experiences you would like to share, please email us at folkestoneexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk or call 01233 895801.
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