South Africa’s Council for Geoscience Reports Earthquake and Aftershock

On December 22, South Africa’s Council for Geoscience confirmed a 5.3 magnitude earthquake and a 2.9 magnitude aftershock, located southwest of Buchufontein in the Northern Cape. Many residents from various areas reported feeling the tremors, prompting the CGS to encourage public reports through an online questionnaire.

On Sunday morning, December 22, South Africa’s Council for Geoscience (CGS) confirmed the occurrence of an earthquake and its subsequent aftershock. The events were recorded at approximately 02:51 and 05:28, respectively. Preliminary analyses indicated that the earthquake had a local magnitude of around 5.3, while the aftershock measured 2.9, as documented by the South African Seismograph Network (SANSN). The epicenter of these seismic activities was determined to be located within 20 kilometers southwest of Buchufontein in the Northern Cape, and reports of tremors have also been received from various regions of the country.

In response to the tremors, many residents from various towns—including Dana Bay, Mossel Bay Central, Dias, and even as far as Cape Town—reported feeling the effects. The Council has invited the public to share their experiences through an online questionnaire available on their website. The CGS, responsible for monitoring seismic activity in South Africa, encourages citizens to document their encounters with these tremors to contribute to the ongoing analysis of the situation.

Earthquakes are not common in South Africa, but the events that occurred on December 22 have drawn significant attention due to their magnitude and the widespread impact they experienced. The Council for Geoscience plays a crucial role in monitoring seismic activities through the South African Seismograph Network, which provides valuable data regarding earthquakes and aftershocks. Understanding these occurrences is vital for public safety and preparedness, hence the emphasis on citizen reports following seismic events.

In summary, the recent earthquake and aftershock in Northern Cape highlight the necessity of public engagement in monitoring seismic activities. With perceived tremors reaching as far as Cape Town and surrounding towns, the CGS is actively collecting data to understand the phenomena better. This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of earthquakes and the importance of community awareness and preparedness.

Original Source: www.mosselbayadvertiser.com