Clarification on Voinjama Seismic Event: Earth Tremor, Not Earthquake

A Facebook post claimed an earthquake occurred in Voinjama City, Lofa County, but verification by the NDMA clarified it was an earth tremor instead. The distinction between earthquakes and tremors is pivotal for public safety and understanding of seismic events. The NDMA confirmed that the incident was low-intensity and assessed by a team of experts, making the original claim misleading.

On November 18, 2024, a Facebook user named Makagbeh Kamara claimed that an earthquake struck Voinjama City in Lofa County, expressing concerns for the city’s safety. His post garnered a mix of 171 reactions and 241 comments, prompting DUBAWA to investigate the veracity of the claim. After consulting with Mr. Archievego M Doe, Communication Officer of the National Disaster Management Agency of Liberia (NDMA), it was confirmed that a low-intensity earth tremor occurred in the area, not an earthquake as initially stated. A team consisting of geologists and environmentalists assessed the situation and validated the presence of an earth tremor, which is less intense than an earthquake. This distinction is crucial, as earthquakes are associated with significant ground movements and potential destruction, while earth tremors are minor and brief disturbances.

The distinction between earthquakes and earth tremors is essential in understanding seismic events. Earthquakes are characterized by violent shaking of the ground, often resulting in substantial damage, whereas earth tremors are relatively gentle movements of the earth’s surface caused by the same natural forces. This topic is particularly significant in regions prone to seismic activities, as misinformation can lead to unnecessary panic among residents. The National Disaster Management Agency plays a vital role in monitoring such incidents and providing clear information to the public to mitigate fear and confusion.

In conclusion, the claim regarding an earthquake in Voinjama City has been deemed misleading. The incident was accurately identified as a low-intensity earth tremor by the NDMA, underscoring the importance of distinguishing between the two types of seismic activity. This verification helps to alleviate public concern and ensures that residents receive accurate information regarding their safety during such events.

Original Source: dubawa.org