Byline Amanda Gumede
21 July 2024, Sunday
The community was taken aback by an earth tremor that occurred on Monday, 1st of July, in Soweto, Naturena, Kibler Park, and Roodepoort. The tremor is believed to have been caused by tectonic plate shifts and increased mining activities.
#JohannesburgTremor #EarthquakeMonitor #UnexpectedEvent
According to Earthquake Monitor, a quake or seismic-like event was reported 20 km south of Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.
#SeismicActivity #EarthquakeMonitor
Gauteng Weather recorded the tremor at 2:28 am with a magnitude of 2.6. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. “The city recently experienced an underground explosion, which might have caused friction between the bedrocks. The stress from the surface overcame that friction, resulting in the earth tremor,” stated Mlondi Xulu, a geological student from the University of Johannesburg.
#GautengWeather #GeologicalInsight #NoInjuries
Source: Times Live. An earth tremor was felt in parts of Johannesburg early on July 1.
Image: 123RF/vchalup/File photo
TimesLive #EarthquakePhoto
Earth tremors are uncommon in South Africa since it is located on a single tectonic plate. “Johannesburg’s high population and numerous industrial activities, such as mining, oil fracking, natural gas extraction, and wastewater disposal, can all lead to earth tremors,” Mlondi explained. Initially, people thought the tremor was caused by illegal miners (Zamazamas) searching for gold, but it was likely due to tectonic plate movements beneath the earth’s surface. Although the affected areas are outside the city, they are still impacted by mining activities.
#TectonicPlates #IndustrialImpact #MiningActivities
The African Plate, a major tectonic plate covering approximately 61,300,000 km², includes features such as Africa, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Red Sea.
#AfricanPlate #GeologicalFacts
The July 1st tremor was the second in a few days, following a tremor on June 29th with a magnitude of 3. This series of tremors has left people anxious and uncertain about what to expect next. “The Minister of Environment must provide a report on these earth tremors; we don’t want problems,” said community member Aluta. The tremor has caused fear among residents, with some expressing concern about their safety. “God is ready for his people. I am now scared of sleeping,” said Amanda Thandi, another community member.
#SeriesOfTremors #CommunityConcerns #MinisterReport
Residents are advised to avoid areas with high industrial activity, stay indoors, and remain alert for emergencies. Local authorities should offer support, such as counseling, to help people cope with their fear. “Jesus Christ is coming back soon; these are the signs,” said community member Athi. It is crucial for people to educate themselves about earth tremors to gain a better understanding and stay prepared.
#SafetyAdvice #CommunitySupport #StayInformed