Residents near Doornkop, Gauteng, experienced a 3.0 magnitude tremor on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, at around 19:35.
Story Summary:
- A 3.0 magnitude tremor was reported near Doornkop, Gauteng, on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, at 19:35.
- Early reports indicate weak shaking, with no confirmed reports of damage or injuries.
- Authorities are monitoring the situation, and further updates will follow as more information becomes available.
3.0 magnitude tremor reported in Doornkop: Here’s what we know
The seismic event was recorded approximately 2.4km northwest of Doornkop and was initially reported by Volcano Discovery, an independent seismic event tracker.
Early reports indicate that the tremor caused weak shaking, with 62 individuals reporting feeling the ground move.
The epicentre was located at a depth of 10km below the surface, which is considered a relatively shallow tremor.
Due to its shallow depth, even a low-magnitude tremor like this can be felt over a wider area.
While the tremor was not strong enough to cause significant damage, it created a noticeable impact for those in nearby areas.
One resident shared, “It felt like a slight rumble beneath my feet, but nothing fell off the shelves.”
The tremor has yet to be confirmed by national or international seismological agencies, but monitoring services are working to provide more accurate data.
How dangerous is a 3.0 magnitude tremor?
A tremor with a 3.0 magnitude is generally considered weak and unlikely to cause any serious damage.
Tremors of this magnitude typically result in mild shaking that can be felt indoors, but they rarely cause structural harm or injuries.
According to the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, a 3.0 magnitude tremor falls under “Intensity III,” which means it can be felt by people indoors, especially on higher floors, but it is unlikely to cause any damage.
Seismologists categorise tremors in this range as minor seismic events.
However, it’s important to remain cautious, especially if you live in an older building or a structure with pre-existing vulnerabilities, as even small tremors can potentially weaken them further over time.
What to do when you feel a tremor
If you feel a tremor, it’s essential to know how to protect yourself.
Here are some safety tips:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Drop to your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over, cover your head and neck with your arms, and take cover under sturdy furniture if possible. Hold on until the shaking stops.
- Stay Indoors: If you’re inside, stay there until the tremor ends. Avoid windows, glass, and heavy objects that could fall. If you’re outside, move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.
- Avoid Using Elevators: In the event of a tremor, do not use elevators, as they can malfunction or get stuck.
- Check for Hazards: After the tremor, check for gas leaks, damaged electrical wiring, and structural damage in your home or building.
What is the difference between an earthquake and a tremor?
The terms “earthquake” and “tremor” are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences.
An earthquake is a sudden and violent shaking of the ground, typically caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface.
It can vary in intensity and cause significant damage, especially when it reaches a higher magnitude.
A tremor, on the other hand, refers to a smaller, less intense shaking event.
Tremors can be a sign of seismic activity but are usually less severe than full-fledged earthquakes.
In this case, the 3.0 magnitude event near Doornkop is categorised as a tremor because of its low intensity and limited impact.
As more information becomes available, authorities and seismic experts will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on any further seismic activity in the region.
