Hanoi (VNA) – A 4.2-magnitude earthquake jolted Kong Plong district in the Central Highlands province of Kon Tum on early January 9 morning, according to the Vietnam Earthquake Information and Tsunami Warning Centre under the Institute of Geophysics.
The seismic event, which occurred at 1:55 am (Hanoi time) at a focal depth of some 8.2 kilometres, caused no casualties or property damage. The centre classified the natural disaster risk level at zero.
This tremor followed three smaller quakes the same morning, ranging from magnitude 2.7 to 3.4, all pinpointing the epicentres in Kong Plong district.
Experts explained that these events are part of a pattern of induced seismicity that has been consistently observed in the region since 2021. Director of the Institute of Geophysics Dr. Nguyen Xuan Anh noted that Kon Tum province, particularly Kon Plong district, lies within a minor fault zone where earthquakes typically do not exceed magnitude 5.0.
The institute provides regular updates for the local authorities and residents about seismic activities while continuing to monitor and analyse earthquake data in the district.
Anh suggested residents take precautionary measures during earthquakes, such as bracing themselves in doorframes or seeking shelter under sturdy tables when inside structurally sound buildings. Those outdoor should maintain distance from power lines and poles while moving to open areas. Drivers are advised to pull over safely and stop their vehicles during seismic events./.
