A minor earthquake rattled parts of southwestern Ohio on Sunday morning, prompting reports from residents who felt the tremor. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a 2.5 magnitude earthquake was detected near Hillsboro at approximately 5:50 a.m. local time.
What Happened? Details of the Ohio Earthquake
While a 2.5 magnitude earthquake is considered relatively weak on the Richter scale, it was strong enough to be felt by some individuals in the surrounding areas. The USGS reports the earthquake’s epicenter was located 6.4 kilometers (4 miles) beneath the Earth’s surface. This shallow depth can sometimes amplify the felt intensity, even for smaller magnitude events.
Reports indicate that residents experienced a brief shaking sensation. As of now, there have been no immediate reports of damage to property. However, authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and assess any potential impacts.
Understanding Earthquake Magnitude
The Richter scale, officially known as the local magnitude scale, measures the size of an earthquake. Each whole number increase on the scale represents a tenfold increase in measured amplitude. A 2.5 magnitude earthquake is generally considered a minor tremor, often not causing significant damage, but can be noticeable. For comparison, earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.0 or higher are considered major and can cause serious damage over large areas. You can learn more about earthquake magnitude scales at the USGS website.
What to Do During an Earthquake
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: This is the recommended action during an earthquake. Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck with your arms, and hold on to a sturdy piece of furniture.
- If Indoors: Stay inside. Avoid doorways and windows.
- If Outdoors: Move to a clear area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
- If in a Vehicle: Pull over to a safe location and set the parking brake.
For more comprehensive information on earthquake preparedness, visit the Ready.gov website. Staying informed and prepared can significantly increase your safety during a seismic event.
You can find more detailed information about this specific earthquake and ongoing seismic activity from the USGS: USGS Earthquake Hazards Program.
