A 4.7-magnitude earthquake struck near Nairobi, Kenya, on Tuesday evening, July 16, 2024, causing widespread panic.
The earthquake, with a shallow depth of 10 km, occurred at approximately 8:32 pm local time, according to VolcanoDiscovery, which cited the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ).
The tremors were felt in various parts of Nairobi, including Kitengela, Ruaka, and Westlands. Other affected areas included Isinya, Kajiado County, Kirinyanga, Kisii, Nyeri, and Murang. Residents reported the shaking lasted for about 30 seconds.
Kenya’s Rift Valley and the Kavirondo (Nyanza) Rift are the most seismically active regions in the country, typically experiencing earthquakes ranging from local magnitudes (Ml) of 2.0 to 5.0.
Preliminary data from seismologists indicate that the quake was likely perceptible to many people near the epicenter, while no significant damage is expected, minor incidents may have occurred, such as objects falling off shelves or windows breaking. The initial magnitude, epicenter, and depth are subject to revision as more data is analyzed.
The earthquake’s effect on nearby settlements and cities is estimated as follows:
- Magadi (population 14,500), 15 km from the epicenter, likely experienced light shaking.
- Kajiado (population 11,200), 67 km from the epicenter, may have felt weak shaking.
- Ngong (population 9,500), 78 km away, possibly experienced weak shaking.
- Kikuyu (population 323,900), 86 km from the epicenter, likely felt very weak shaking.
- Narok (population 36,100), 91 km away, likely felt very weak shaking.
- Nairobi (population 2,750,500), 95 km away, likely felt very weak shaking.
- Limuru (population 159,300), 96 km from the epicenter, likely felt very weak shaking.
- Athi River (population 24,500), 99 km away, likely felt very weak shaking.
Authorities are continuing to assess the situation and urge residents to remain cautious and follow safety protocols.
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