'Explosion' mystery deepens as US Air Force issues 'sonic boom' update
The mystery behind what caused a huge "explosion" which rattled windows and shook the ground has deepened. A ground-rattling "boom" was heard in the sky above Gwynedd and Anglesey on Tuesday afternoon.
People ducked for cover thinking there had been a "gas explosion" or "plane crash" after the blast was heard. It sparked widespread debate as to what caused the sound. You can read more about that here.
After the British Geological Survey confirmed no earthquakes had taken place, and the fire service said they were not called to any explosions, the leading theory online was that the incident had been caused by a "sonic boom". Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone
This would have happened if an aircraft reached supersonic speed, breaking the sound barrier. While the RAF said they had no flights in the area at the time, the theory was strengthened when the US Air Force said they were looking into the reports.
A spokesperson said they had been made aware on Wednesday morning of a potential "sonic boom" over North Wales, and were analysing the report.
However, the mystery has now deepened after the US Air Force issued a fresh statement. A spokesperson told North Wales Live: "The 48th Fighter Wing had two F-15E aircraft in the area of North Wales at the time in question, but neither aircraft had a supersonic event."
Gwynedd county councillor Arwyn Roberts was in Caernarfon at the time and described it as "one hell of a bang". He said: "You could feel the ground shaking. It has got everyone talking. People are talking about it everywhere."
Cllr Roberts said people from as far away as Benllech on Anglesey and Porthmadog had heard it. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
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