Earthquake shakes Perth residents awake with 5.6-magnitude jolt

National WA Earthquakes Residents awoken by 5.6-magnitude earthquake south of Perth

By Alex Condon

August 6, 2023 — 10.21am

(Image: Credit: Geoscience Australia)

A 5.6-magnitude earthquake has struck southern Western Australia early on Sunday, shaking awake more than 1500 residents. The epicenter of the quake was located northeast of Gnowangerup, a small town between Katanning and Albany on the state’s south coast. The tremors were felt as far as Perth, over 300 kilometers away.

The Impact of the Earthquake

The earthquake, with a depth of five kilometers, lasted for about 30 seconds. It was the largest seismic event in Western Australia in years. Geoscience Australia, the government agency responsible for earthquake monitoring, recorded the event and confirmed the magnitude and location.

Witness Accounts and Response on Social Media

Many residents were quick to document their experiences of the earthquake on social media. Some described it as a relatively big event for Perth, as furniture shook and blinds rattled.

Ben Hodsdon, a local resident, wrote on Facebook: “Any one feel an earthquake at around 5.35am today? Relatively big for Perth.”

Scott B, another Perth resident, shared on Twitter: “Earthquake this morning down south, felt in Perth – my bedroom blinds shook at the time, and I couldn’t figure out why.”

Tsunami Threat and Safety Measures

The Bureau of Meteorology promptly reassured the public that there was no risk of a tsunami. This information was posted on their website, helping to alleviate concerns and ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the affected areas.

Reflection on Historical Earthquakes in Western Australia

This earthquake in southern Western Australia serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity. The largest recorded earthquake in the state occurred in Meckering, in the Wheatbelt region, in 1968, measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale. It caused significant damage to infrastructure and properties in the area.

Editorial: Coping with Natural Disasters

Earthquakes, along with other natural disasters, can bring about devastating consequences and disrupt the lives of those affected. In the face of such events, it is crucial for communities to be prepared and resilient.

Australia has a history of dealing with various natural disasters, including bushfires, floods, and cyclones. These events highlight the importance of having well-developed emergency response plans in place, as well as providing adequate support and resources for affected individuals and communities.

Building Community Resilience

Communities are encouraged to establish local disaster management committees and engage in regular training exercises to ensure effective response and coordination during emergencies. Local governments should invest in infrastructure that can withstand natural disasters, such as earthquake-resistant buildings and early warning systems.

Education and Preparedness

Education plays a vital role in preparing individuals for natural disasters. Schools and community organizations should incorporate disaster preparedness and response training into their curriculum and activities. This includes teaching basic safety measures, such as knowing how to safely evacuate buildings during earthquakes and understanding the importance of securing heavy furniture and objects that can cause injuries or damage during seismic events.

Support and Recovery

In the aftermath of an earthquake or any other natural disaster, the provision of support and assistance is crucial for affected individuals and communities. Governments, non-profit organizations, and volunteers should work together to offer immediate relief, temporary housing, and access to essential services. Long-term recovery efforts should focus on rebuilding infrastructure and providing mental health support to those affected.

Conclusion: Strengthening Resilience for a Safer Future

The recent earthquake in southern Western Australia reminds us of the ever-present danger of natural disasters. As a nation, we must commit to ongoing efforts to strengthen our resilience, increase preparedness, and support our communities during times of crisis. By learning from these events and implementing proactive measures, we can mitigate the impacts of future disasters and protect the well-being of all Australians.

is a current affairs commentator for The New York Times.