Magnitude 4.0 Earthquake Detected Off Western Australia Coast

A magnitude 4.0 earthquake occurred off the coast of Western Australia, 260km from Albany. This follows a magnitude 4.1 earthquake in NSW that impacted many residents. Experts anticipate continued seismic activity in both regions, advising residents to prepare for aftershocks.

On Thursday, a magnitude 4.0 earthquake was recorded off the coast of Western Australia, occurring approximately 260 kilometers from Albany at a depth of 10 kilometers around 10:45 a.m. local time. This seismic event follows a magnitude 4.1 earthquake that struck regional New South Wales just two days prior, leaving thousands without power. The earlier quake was centered near Denman in the Upper Hunter Region, where over 300 people reported feeling the tremors. Seismologists have described the situation in New South Wales as a ‘swarm sequence’ of earthquakes, indicating that the region could continue experiencing seismic activity in the coming months. Residents of Muswellbrook have been warned to prepare for aftershocks following a series of four earthquakes in the last three months. As explained by senior seismologist Dr. Hadi Ghasemi from GeoScience Australia, these earthquakes are part of a series of similarly sized quakes rather than mere aftershocks. The recent magnitude 4.0 quake was detected offshore from the D’Entrecasteaux National Park, located 315 kilometers south of Perth. Geological records indicate that in this region, over 50 earthquakes have occurred since a notable magnitude 4.7 incident in August, including several with larger magnitudes. Dr. Ghasemi cautioned the public regarding the likelihood of further tremors, suggesting that past earthquakes of this magnitude have been followed by smaller aftershocks. He emphasized the potential for continued activity due to the swarm dynamics prevalent in the region.

Earthquakes are natural seismic events caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the earth’s surface. The areas affected by earthquakes, particularly regions like Western Australia and New South Wales, often experience tremors due to geological conditions and fault lines. Recent seismic events in Australia, particularly those in close succession, indicate patterns that may alarm residents and necessitate preparedness measures for potential aftershocks.

In summary, the recent magnitude 4.0 earthquake off the coast of Western Australia and its proximity to the preceding magnitude 4.1 earthquake in New South Wales highlight the persistent seismic activity affecting the region. With expert warnings of possible future earthquakes and aftershocks, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and informed.

Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk