Two earthquakes hit this Western Australian mining town on Wednesday, leaving locals startled and social media buzzing with reactions.
What Happened?
The first shake struck at 8:44 AM near Redbank’s solar salt farm, measuring 2.9 on the Richter scale. Just hours later, at 1:20 PM, a second tremor of 2.8 magnitude rattled the coast of Port Hedland.
Local Reactions:
“The Whole House Shook!” Residents took to Facebook to share their experiences. One South Hedland local described going into “fight mode” as their house shook. Another person claimed to witness trees falling in Marble Bar, though experts are skeptical about tremors reaching that far.
Expert Weighs In:
What’s Really Going On? Senior seismologist Phil Cummins from GeoScience Australia explains that while the earthquakes were real, some reported effects might be misinterpreted. “Sometimes people might feel something around that time, but it could actually be something different,” he says.
Is This Part of a Bigger Pattern?
The Pilbara region has an interesting earthquake history: • 1961: 5.6 magnitude quake east of Port Hedland • 1970: 5.0 magnitude shake to the west • 2005: 4.6 magnitude tremor in the area
Mining Activity: Is There a Connection?
While some might wonder if local mining operations are to blame, Dr. Cummins says there’s no direct evidence linking the two. “Earthquakes of this size have been happening in that general area for quite some time,” he explains.
What Should Residents Do? Did you feel the shake?
GeoScience Australia wants to hear from you! Report your experience at earthquakes.ga.gov.au to help experts better understand these seismic events.