Earthquake shakes Victorian ground: Exploring the impact and aftermath

National Victoria Earthquakes

Victoria rattled by magnitude 5 earthquake

By Najma Sambul

October 22, 2023 — 7.40am

Melbourne, Australia – A magnitude 5.0 earthquake struck Victoria in the early hours of Sunday morning, rattling parts of Melbourne and causing minor damage. Geoscience Australia reported that the epicenter of the quake was in the Cape Otway region, 150 kilometers southwest of Melbourne. The quake occurred at a depth of approximately seven kilometers.

About 5000 people reported feeling the quake as far as Sunshine in Melbourne’s west, St Kilda, and Reservoir. The State Emergency Service in Victoria confirmed that there were some calls for assistance, but fortunately, no injuries were reported. Premier Jacinta Allan stated that two properties in the Colac area may have been damaged due to the earthquake.

A Case of Earthquake Activity?

Following the earthquake, concerns were raised about an alleged increase in earthquake activity in Victoria and Melbourne. Adam Pascale, the chief scientist at the Seismology Research Centre, addressed these concerns, stating that there hasn’t been a rise in earthquakes in the region. He attributed the perception of increased seismic events to the fact that more earthquakes are being felt by the population due to proximity.

“People are noticing them more, and we are getting more earthquakes felt by people, [but] we aren’t seeing more activity,” Pascale explained. He also assured the residents of Victoria that while aftershocks might still be expected in the Cape Otway region, most of them will go unnoticed.

Preparing for Earthquakes

In light of the recent earthquake, Pascale emphasized the importance of residents being prepared for larger earthquakes. He recommended the popular “drop, cover, and hold on” technique as the appropriate response during an earthquake. This technique advises individuals to drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops. Being familiar with these safety measures can greatly reduce the risk of injuries during seismic events.

Editorial

Earthquakes may not be a common occurrence in Australia, but as recent events have shown, they can still happen. The earthquake in Victoria is a reminder that we should always be prepared for natural disasters, regardless of their likelihood.

Australia is known for its resilience in the face of challenges, and it is crucial that we apply the same mindset to disaster preparedness. Governments at all levels should invest in education and resources to ensure that communities are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to respond effectively to emergencies.

Furthermore, individuals have a responsibility to educate themselves and their families about the appropriate actions to take during earthquakes and other natural disasters. By familiarizing ourselves with safety protocols and having emergency kits readily available, we can significantly mitigate the impact of such events.

Advice

If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, it is essential to take proactive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here are some key steps to consider:

1. Create an emergency plan: Discuss with your family what actions to take during an earthquake. Identify safe spots in your home and establish a communication plan.
2. Prepare an emergency kit: Include essential supplies such as food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. Keep the kit easily accessible.
3. Secure heavy items: Anchor bookshelves, cabinets, and other heavy furniture to prevent them from tipping over during an earthquake.
4. Protect yourself during the quake: Drop to the ground, take cover under a piece of sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
5. Stay informed: Stay updated on local emergency alerts and follow the instructions of authorities.

By taking these steps, we can minimize the impact of earthquakes and ensure the safety of our communities. Remember, preparedness is key when it comes to natural disasters.