Staff ReporterA a moderate earthquake with a magnitude of 4.1 struck near Chegutu, Mashonaland West, Zimbabwe, causing concern among local and regional communities. The seismic activity was recorded in the late afternoon of Wednesday, March 20, 2024, precisely at 5:27 pm local time, according to geological monitoring authorities.
The epicenter of the quake was located approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) away from Chegutu, with a notably shallow depth of just 10 kilometers (6 miles). Despite the potential for alarm, there have been no immediate reports of the earthquake being felt by residents in the vicinity or in the larger towns and cities within its range.
Harare, the bustling capital city of Zimbabwe and home to approximately 1.5 million people, lies 91 kilometers (57 miles) east of the earthquake’s epicenter. It is believed that individuals in Harare may have experienced very weak shaking, though no disturbances have been officially reported.
Closer to the epicenter, several smaller towns and villages could have potentially experienced more pronounced shaking. However, there have yet to be any reports of damage or injury as a result of the earthquake.
Even further afield, in Lusaka, the capital of neighboring Zambia, situated 347 kilometers (216 miles) from the epicenter, the earthquake went unnoticed. The geographic and geological conditions likely contributed to the minimal impact experienced across the region.
This event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of seismic activities and the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about earthquake safety and preparedness measures.
