The U.S. Geological Survey National Earthquake Information Center is reporting a 6.0 magnitude earthquake has occurred in the Gulf of Mexico approximately 250 miles WSW of Anna Maria, Florida. Tremors were reportedly felt in the Tampa Bay Area and as far north as Georgia. The quake occurred at the epicenter at approximately 10:56 a.m. Sunday morning. The quake was updated from 5.8 magnitude.

The following information has been released by the U.S. Geological Survey National Earthquake Information Center:

A strong earthquake occurred about 250 miles (405 km) south-southwest of Apalachicola, Florida at 8:56 AM MDT, Sep 10, 2006 (10:56 AM EDT in Florida). The magnitude and location may be revised when additional data and further analysis results are available. This earthquake was felt in parts of Florida, Georgia and Alabama. No reports of damage or casualties have been received at this time.

Florida is not considered a high hazard for earthquakes and occurrences are rare. Among the worst reported were near St. Augustine in 1879 which caused damage to structures. Florida is also somewhat susceptible to large earthquakes occurring elsewhere.

More recently, small earthquakes were reported off Merritt Island in 1973 and in Daytona in 1975.