Many parts of Johannesburg have felt a Earth Tremor which is a brief movement of the Earth surface and sometimes lesser intense than an earthquake.
What is an Earth Tremor and what causes it?
Earth Tremors can cause earth quakes, however they itself are only brief movements on Earth’s surface. Earthquakes can be more intense involving activity in Tectonic plate movements.
These tectonic plates make up the earth’s crust and move slowly. When the plates come in contact with its edges they cause friction. The plates overcome the friction causing slips which releases energy. This energy becomes seismic waves and causes the ground to shake. Some of the other activities that can lead to Earth Tremors include:
- Volcanic activity
- The movement of magma towards the surface before a volcanic eruption can cause earthquakes.
- Underground explosions
- Glacial earthquakes
- The collapse of large rocks can cause minor earthquakes.
- Mining operation
- Subway construction
- Ocean and lake wave activity
The Magnitude of Tremor yet to be confirmed
On Tuesday evening 24th September, a Tremor was felt in Johannesburg. According to the Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi, the magnitude of the tremor is yet to be confirmed by the Council for Geoscience. Many parts of Johannesburg experienced the Earth Tremor such as Roodepoort, Soweto and surrounding areas.
No injuries or catastrophe sustained by the event and residents encouraged to call emergency services for any urgent, life threatening emergencies.
Conclusion
These tremors calls for emergency watch out and many residents in Johannesburg have experienced it. The emergency services have warned citizens to remain vigilant whilst reaching out to them in case of need.
Key Points
- Johannesburg experienced an Earth Tremor, a brief surface movement that is often less intense than an earthquake.
- Earth Tremors caused by tectonic plate movements or other activities like volcanic activity, mining, or underground explosions.
- The magnitude of the tremor remains unconfirmed, and no injuries have been reported in affected areas such as Roodepoort and Soweto.
