On Wednesday, 4 October 2023, at approximately 19:24, Johannesburg experienced a seismic event, later confirmed as a 3.0 magnitude earthquake, according to primary data sourced from RaspberryShake.
Johannesburg experienced 3.0 magnitude earthquake on Wednesday, 4 October 2023
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The tremor’s epicentre was located within the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng, South Africa, precisely at latitude 26.243°S and longitude 27.887°E, with a depth measured at 10.0 km.
The seismic activity was felt in several nearby towns and cities, including Soweto, Roodepoort, and Randfontein.
Reports indicate that the shaking intensity was categorised as weak, with 31 reports confirming the event was felt.
This seismic event follows a tremor that jolted several areas in Johannesburg on 30 August 2023, hinting at a pattern of seismic activity in the region.
How dangerous is a 3.0 magnitude earthquake?
A 3.0 magnitude earthquake, while considered to be minor, can still be felt by people, especially in areas near the epicentre.
The impact of such a magnitude typically results in minimal-to-no damage to buildings and other structures.
However, the sensation of the ground shaking can be unsettling for individuals, sparking concern and fear.
It’s imperative, given the recent seismic activities, for residents to be equipped with knowledge on what to do during an earthquake.
Experts advise taking the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” approach.
This entails dropping to your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over, covering your head and neck (and your entire body if possible) under a sturdy table or desk, and holding on to your shelter until the shaking stops.
Furthermore, staying indoors until the shaking ceases and avoiding using elevators are recommended.
If outdoors, moving away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires is advised.
Post-earthquake, checking for injuries and hazards, and listening to official information for updates on the situation are crucial steps.
Johannesburg authorities had not returned our requests for comment when this article was published.
This is a developing story.