Sharp M4.8 earthquake jolts Split, Croatia
A shallow earthquake registered by the EMSC as M4.8 hit near Split, Croatia at 12:57 UTC (13:57 CET) on December 9, 2016. The agency is reporting a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). GFZ Croatia is reporting M4.6 at the same depth (intensity VI – Strong).
The epicenter was located 3 km (1.8 miles) W of Slatine (population 1 000), 4 km (2.5 miles) NE of Trogir (population 10 818), 11 km (6.8 miles) W of Split (population 177 000), Croatia, and 170 km (105 miles) W of Sarajevo (population 697 000), Bosnia and Herzegovina.
There are about 2.3 million people living in the felt area.
The quake lasted up to 6 seconds and was felt in a wide area. At least one aftershock was reported 17 minutes later.
EMSC received 85 testimonies within 90 minutes and warned aftershocks are likely to occur in the following days. "Secure items that could fall and cause injuries (ie. bookshelves, mirrors, light fixtures…)."
Witnesses said they heard loud deep explosion and rumble, followed by strong shaking up and down. Many said they have never experienced an earthquake this strong in the region.
Asphalt cracks on Split streets! @LastQuake #112 pic.twitter.com/6reD0kEXRq
— The No_1 Youngin® (@JJCroatia) December 9, 2016
There are reports of minor damage. All schools in Trogir and Split have been evacuated and closed.
Marjan tunnel in Split was closed due to a danger of vents (fans) and lights falling off.
Regional seismicity 1960 – December 9, 2016. Credit: EMSC
Featured image credit: Bing/EMSC
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