Arabic version: زلزال بقوة 5.5 درجات يهز أراضي APY صباح الأحد الباكر

A magnitude-5.5 earthquake was recorded at Amata in the early hours of Sunday near the border of South Australia and the Northern Territory. The quake struck at 3:56 AM local time, causing rattling shelves and swinging lights in the remote community. According to ABC News, the tremor was felt across the region, including Yulara, Uluru, and Mutitjulu, with about 30 reports of the quake received by Geoscience Australia.

Senior seismologist Jonathan Bathgate noted that the magnitude of the earthquake was equivalent to the deadly 1989 Newcastle earthquake, which resulted in significant casualties and damage. Despite the potential for serious impacts, the remote location of the quake likely mitigated its effects on populated areas.

Following the initial quake, several aftershocks were recorded throughout the morning, ranging from magnitudes 2.8 to 3.6. Bathgate indicated that these aftershocks typically become less frequent and smaller over time, but he cautioned that the possibility of another larger earthquake cannot be ruled out.

The region has a history of seismic activity, having experienced a magnitude-5.4 earthquake in Ernabella in 2012 and a significant magnitude-6.1 quake in the Petermann Ranges in 2016. Bathgate emphasized the area’s capability for significant earthquakes, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and awareness.