3.7-magnitude earthquake hits central Vietnam, no damage reported
VOV.VN - A 3.7 magnitude earthquake struck Mang But commune in Quang Ngai province, central Vietnam, on April 5, according to the Earthquake Information and Tsunami Warning Centre under the Institute of Geosciences.
The quake occurred at 5:49:17 p.m. at a depth of approximately 8.1 kilometrrs. The disaster risk level was assessed at zero.
Authorities said they were continuing to monitor the situation.
Quang Ngai has experienced frequent seismic activity in recent years, particularly in areas previously part of Kon Tum province, with tremors concentrated around the former Kon Plong district.
Since 2021, hundreds of earthquakes have been recorded in the region, including several that caused noticeable ground shaking. The strongest recent event was a 5.0 magnitude quake recorded on July 28, 2024, while another 4.7-magnitude earthquake occurred on August 23, 2022.
In Vietnam, earthquakes with magnitudes between 4.0 and 5.0 are generally classified as minor. Such events may cause objects to shake and produce noise indoors, and can be felt by people both inside and outside buildings, but typically result in little to no damage.
Globally, an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 earthquakes of this magnitude occur each year.
Experts advise residents to stay calm during an earthquake. Indoors, people should take cover under sturdy furniture or stand in a doorway. Outdoors, they should move to open areas away from power lines and structures. Drivers are advised to pull over safely and stop until the shaking subsides.