4.0 magnitude earthquake hits Florida, leaving experts surprised

A 4.0 magnitude earthquake that struck the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Florida on the night of February 7 shook the state's residents.

The US Geological Survey recorded the quake shortly before 23:00 local time. Its epicentre was located about 160 kilometres east of Cape Canaveral, ABC News reports.

Although the earthquake was relatively weak, it may have surprised some people who felt the tremors. At least 80 residents of the state reported the experience.

According to authorities, no serious damage or injuries have been found so far.

Experts say that earthquakes in Florida are rare. According to them, the area is quite stable and it is not often possible to feel the shaking off the coast.

"It's a stable region," said Paul Earle, a seismologist with the US Geological Survey. "However, as we just learned, earthquakes do occur here, but much less frequently than in other regions."

The last earthquake felt in Florida occurred in September 2006. The magnitude reached 5.9, causing minor damage.

The February 7 earthquake was a reminder that natural disasters are possible even in the most stable regions and everyone needs to be prepared.