3.2 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes East King County, WA

A 3.2-magnitude earthquake struck east King County, WA, on Thursday afternoon, following a 2.9-magnitude quake in Bremerton. No injuries were reported, but residents felt the tremors lasting briefly. Experts warn about the vulnerability of buildings in the region due to its location on the Cascadia Subduction Zone.

A 3.2-magnitude earthquake occurred in the early afternoon on Thursday, affecting portions of east King County, Washington. This seismic event transpired at approximately 12:07 P.M., roughly 4.3 miles east-northeast of Fall City, with a depth of around 10.43 miles. Local residents reported feeling the tremor, which lasted for a duration not exceeding two seconds, although no injuries have been noted.

This tremor follows a 2.9-magnitude earthquake that hit Bremerton earlier on the same day, at around 5:00 A.M. While initially assessed as a 3.1 magnitude, this quake was later adjusted downward after federal evaluation. This series of seismic movements has raised concerns regarding the preparedness of Seattle and surrounding areas for a potentially significant earthquake in the future.

Despite the lack of immediate structural damage reports, experts underline the vulnerability of numerous buildings in western Washington, particularly in Seattle. This concern is heightened by the region’s location near the Cascadia Subduction Zone, a fault line known for its potential to trigger major earthquakes and subsequent tsunamis, a risk that has lain dormant for centuries. The uncertainty surrounding when a major earthquake might strike remains a pressing issue.

A milestone will be reached on Friday, marking 24 years since the Nisqually earthquake of 2001, which caused injuries to hundreds and financial damages estimated between $1 to $4 billion across the Puget Sound area. As the region reflects on this history, the potential for future seismic events looms large and demands attention.

In summary, a 3.2-magnitude earthquake shook east King County on Thursday afternoon, coinciding with a 2.9-magnitude quake in Bremerton earlier that day. Although no injuries or structural damage have been reported, experts emphasize the inadequacy of many buildings in the region to withstand a significant seismic event, particularly due to the proximity to the Cascadia Subduction Zone. The approaching anniversary of the Nisqually earthquake serves as a reminder of the ongoing seismic risks in the area.

Original Source: www.fox13seattle.com