Kariba Dam Remains Safe Amid Recent Earthquake Activity

The Zambezi River Authority assures the public that the Kariba Dam remains structurally sound following multiple earthquakes since December 1. The quakes are primarily caused by reservoir-induced seismic activities, and inspections confirm no threats to the dam’s safety.

According to the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), the Kariba Dam, located on the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe, remains structurally sound despite a series of earthquakes that have struck the region since December 1. The ZRA reported that there have been seven earthquakes, including a magnitude 4.9 tremor, with epicenters between 19 to 40 kilometers from the dam. The earthquakes are characterized as reservoir-induced seismic activities linked to fluctuations in water levels due to reservoir management.

The Kariba Dam is recognized as the world’s largest artificial reservoir by volume, serving as a pivotal resource for water management and energy generation in Zambia and Zimbabwe. The dam has experienced seismic activity historically, and such occurrences are not unusual for large reservoirs. With the ZRA overseeing dam safety, it is crucial for both national and international stakeholders to be aware of the dam’s integrity, particularly in the face of natural seismic events.

The Zambezi River Authority has reassured the public concerning the structural safety of the Kariba Dam despite the recent earthquakes. Continuous monitoring and inspections confirm that the dam is performing within expected parameters, with no significant ground accelerations or vibrations observed. This underscores the importance of proactive safety measures and rigorous assessments in maintaining the facility’s integrity.

Original Source: english.news.cn