COLCHESTER

The Colchester earthquake of 1884, with a magnitude of 4.6 ML, was the most damaging earthquake in the UK for several centuries. There was considerable damage to churches, including the top of a spire falling, falling masonry from roofs, falling turrets and parapets. The maximum intensity in the epicentral area was 8 EMS. Damage to residential properties included shattering of brick walls, and chimney falls, often through roofs.