UAE Residents Experience Tremors as Twin Earthquakes Hit Iran
On Tuesday morning, residents of the United Arab Emirates were surprised by a peculiar occurrence as aftershocks from two earthquakes that occurred in southern Iran resonated across the area. The first quake, which registered 5.5 on the Richter scale and occurred at 8:59 AM UAE time, was followed by a second tremor, which registered 6.0 on the Richter scale and occurred at 9:10 AM.
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Unusual Event in the UAE
Both earthquakes have been verified as having taken place by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) of the United Arab Emirates. Even though some inhabitants in the UAE were able to feel the earthquakes, they did not have any substantial damage or influence on the country as a whole.
Social media reacts
As news of the earthquake spread, UAE residents took to social media platforms to share their experiences and concerns. Some residents posted videos showing swaying chandeliers, while others expressed curiosity and a degree of worry about the rare seismic activity in the region. Queries like "Earthquake in the UAE?" and "Did anyone feel an earthquake in Dubai?" circulated on social media platforms. These reactions highlight the relatively uncommon nature of such events in the UAE, where seismic activity is typically low.
Expert Reassurances
Seismology experts in the UAE were quick to provide reassurance to the public. They emphasized that the UAE is located in an area with low to moderate seismic activity and is not situated on an active seismic belt. Khalifa Al Ebri, the director of the Department of Seismology at NCM, explained that these factors contribute to the overall safety of the UAE concerning major earthquakes.
Details of the earthquake
The earthquake had a depth of 10 km (6.21 miles) and occurred in northern Hormozgan Province, approximately 61 km (38 miles) north of Bandar Abbas. While there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties, it is common practice to conduct comprehensive damage assessments, particularly in remote areas, over the course of several hours following a seismic event. Furthermore, the region is expected to experience aftershocks in the coming days.
This episode serves as a reminder that even in regions with low to moderate seismic activity, like the UAE, preparedness for natural disasters remains essential. The UAE's overall low susceptibility to earthquakes should not lead to complacency but rather encourage a proactive approach to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors during potential future seismic occurrences.
