Victoria quake may be followed by further tremors, geologist warns
A magnitude 4.8 earthquake struck near Korumburra in Victoria’s Gippsland region shortly after 2am on Saturday, one of the area’s strongest in two decades. Geologist Dr Dee Ninis says the quake altered stress in the Earth’s crust, so further tremors may follow as the ground readjusts.
More than 100 aftershocks have been recorded, and more than 21,000 people reported feeling the quake, including residents of Melbourne, about 120km away. Aftershocks are generally expected to become smaller and less frequent, but one of similar or greater strength remains possible. Victoria SES advises people caught in a quake to drop, take cover under sturdy furniture and hold on until the shaking stops.
- A 4.8 quake struck near Korumburra.
- More than 100 aftershocks have been recorded.
- Further tremors may continue for days or weeks.
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Victoria experienced a significant earthquake in the early hours of Saturday morning, with a magnitude of 4.8 near Korumburra in the Gippsland region. This was one of the strongest earthquakes to hit the area in about twenty years, and it was felt widely, including in Melbourne more than 100 kilometres away.
When the Earth's crust suddenly shifts during an earthquake, it creates stress in the surrounding rock. A geologist has warned that this stress readjustment means the region may experience further tremors in the coming days or weeks. Over 100 smaller aftershocks have already been recorded since the main quake.
Aftershocks typically become progressively smaller and less frequent as the ground settles. However, there remains a possibility of another quake of similar or greater strength, though this is less common. Authorities advise anyone who feels an earthquake to drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture and hold on until the shaking stops.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Expert warns Aussies to expect more quakes after Victoria tremor”.