A magnitude 4.8 earthquake sent tremors through Myanmar’s bustling commercial hub, Yangon, on Saturday evening. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) and AFP correspondents confirmed the seismic event, with reports indicating a duration of at least one minute. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
The earthquake, which struck at a depth of 10 kilometers, had its epicenter located approximately 39 kilometers (24 miles) north of Yangon. This shallow depth may have contributed to the intensity of the tremors felt in the city, home to around 8 million people.
Residents of Yangon recounted the startling experience as buildings swayed and the ground beneath them rumbled around 8:55 pm local time (1425 GMT). Despite the unsettling nature of the event, there was a notable absence of any significant structural damage or injuries reported.
Myanmar, located in Southeast Asia, falls within a region that is known for its tectonic activity. Earthquakes are relatively common in this part of the world, as several tectonic plates converge in the area, creating the potential for seismic events. While this earthquake caused alarm, the region’s history of preparedness and response to such occurrences has likely contributed to the lack of immediate damage.
Government authorities and local emergency services are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to respond swiftly if any reports of damage or injuries emerge. Citizens are also urged to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols in the event of any aftershocks.
Myanmar’s resilience in the face of natural disasters is a testament to the preparedness measures in place and the cooperation of its residents. Further updates on the situation will be provided as they become available, but for now, Yangon can take a collective sigh of relief as the city continues its day-to-day activities following this tremor.
Sources By Agencies
