Significant 4.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Western Australian Coast

A 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the WA coast on October 10, 2023, at 10:45 AM. It occurred 10 km deep in the Southern Ocean, approximately 260 km from Albany. Residents in Augusta, Margaret River, and Manjimup reported feeling the quake. This event follows two smaller earthquakes in the area.

On the morning of the 10th of October, a 4.0 magnitude earthquake was detected off the coast of Western Australia. Occurring at 10:45 AM, the seismic event was located 10 kilometers deep within the Southern Ocean and approximately 260 kilometers from Albany. Geoscience Australia confirmed receipt of five reports from residents who experienced the tremor, with individuals in Augusta, Margaret River, and Manjimup indicating that they felt the earthquake. This seismic event follows two smaller earthquakes reported three days earlier in Collie and one recorded nearly a week prior in Lake Muir.

Earthquakes are natural phenomena caused by the shifting of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. Australia experiences relatively low seismic activity compared to other regions, yet it is not immune to such occurrences. The recent earthquake adds to a series of minor tremors felt in the region, highlighting the unpredictable nature of geological events. Understanding the impact of seismic activity is vital for public safety and emergency preparedness in affected areas.

In summary, the recent earthquake off the WA coast serves as a reminder of the geological dynamics affecting Australia. This 4.0 magnitude event, with reports from several towns, is part of a small series of seismic activities in the region. Continued monitoring and research by organizations such as Geoscience Australia are essential in the effort to understand and mitigate the risks associated with earthquakes.

Original Source: www.perthnow.com.au