Jobaaj Stories
Newcastle Earthquake: Strong Tremors Shake NSW
A powerful 4.6 magnitude earthquake struck the NSW Hunter region early Wednesday morning, jolting residents awake and sending tremors as far south as Wollongong and as far west as the Blue Mountains. The quake, which hit at 2:55 am, was felt across a vast area, with over 3500 people reporting its impact to Geoscience Australia. This makes it one of the largest earthquakes felt in the region in recent years. This article will detail the event, its impact, and what we can expect next.
Widespread Tremors and Reactions
Residents in high-rise buildings across Sydney, particularly in Wentworth Point and Mascot, felt the quake intensely. Even in areas hundreds of kilometres away, from Taree to Canberra, people reported feeling their homes shake. In the Hunter Valley itself, descriptions ranged from rattling dishes to furniture moving. Many initially mistook the shaking for a vehicle crash or mining blast, common in the region. However, the intensity and widespread nature confirmed it as a significant earthquake.
Singleton Epicenter and Aftershocks
Geoscience Australia located the epicentre approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Singleton, at a depth of 10 kilometres. An aftershock of magnitude 2.7 hit the same area around 2:57 pm. While the initial quake prompted widespread concern, there were no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries. Seismologists warn of potential smaller aftershocks in the days to come, a typical occurrence following such an event.
Historical Context and Expert Opinion
Professor Phil Cummins, a seismologist, highlighted that while a 4.6 magnitude earthquake is relatively large for Australia, it's typically below the threshold for widespread structural damage. He noted that the Hunter Valley region is seismically active, and this quake follows a number of other significant tremors in the past year. The memory of the devastating 1989 Newcastle earthquake (5.6 magnitude), which resulted in 13 deaths, remains fresh in the minds of many residents. However, the Joint Australian Tsunami Warning Centre confirmed this quake posed no tsunami threat.
What to Do Next
Authorities advise residents to check their properties for any damage, particularly to roofs and walls. While the initial reports indicate minimal damage, any concerns should be reported to the relevant services. The experience serves as a reminder of the region’s seismic activity and the importance of preparedness.
