USS Ted Stevens naval test causes seismic shake on Florida coast

On July 16, 2024 an underwater explosion was detonated in the Atlantic about 91 miles east‑northeast of Ponce Inlet and 93 miles east‑northeast of Daytona Beach. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded the event with a preliminary magnitude of 3.9, and residents along Florida’s east coast reported ground shaking that many initially mistook for an earthquake.

The U.S. Navy later confirmed the blast was part of full‑ship shock trials for the new guided‑missile destroyer USS Ted Stevens. The tests evaluate the vessel’s structural integrity and the survivability of its systems under extreme shock conditions. No property damage or injuries were reported, and seismic data showed characteristics of an explosion rather than tectonic activity.