Kariba rattled by twin earthquakes

Kariba, the resort town in Zimbabwe known for its picturesque dam, was shaken by two moderate earthquakes last Thursday, leaving residents startled and unnerved by the tremors. The first earthquake, measuring 3.9 on the Richter scale, struck at approximately 3 a.m., while the second, measuring 3.7, occurred around 09:36 a.m. Both tremors were felt most strongly near the dam wall and throughout Kariba town, where they caused widespread alarm among the local population.

Residents who spoke to NewsDay described the experience as frightening and intense, with many of them still reeling from the shock.

"I was in my house when the first earthquake struck," Tracy Martin, a Kariba resident, recounted. "The ground was shaking, and I heard a loud rumbling noise. It was very scary."

Another local shared their account, saying, "We felt the earthquake and buildings were shaking. Most people were awoken by the incident, and many rushed outside to seek safety."

The Meteorological Services Department confirmed that the earthquakes were of moderate magnitude, though they did not report any damage in the area. The department also indicated that more inquiries would be made to assess the intensity of the tremors locally.

"While these earthquakes were moderate, it's important to note that earthquakes of varying magnitudes have been recorded in the region over the years. The department is continuing its assessments and monitoring," a spokesperson from the department said.

Kariba has a long history of seismic activity, largely attributed to the presence of the Kariba Dam, which was completed in the late 1950s. The dam, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, exerts significant pressure on the local geological structures, and its immense weight has been linked to occasional seismic events.

In fact, the region has experienced several earthquakes since the dam's construction, with tremors ranging from minor to more severe. One of the most significant recorded earthquakes occurred in 1963, measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale, which caused considerable concern, although it resulted in minimal damage. More recently, in 2016, a series of tremors reminded locals of the ongoing seismic risks associated with the dam.

The Meteorological Services Department continues to monitor seismic activity in the area closely, providing updates to help reassure residents. Despite the occasional tremors, authorities have stressed that while the seismic risks are present, significant damage has not occurred in recent events.

Local residents, however, remain on edge, with many hoping that future earthquakes will be less intense. The government's ongoing monitoring and communication efforts aim to offer both reassurance and preparedness for the community as they brace for the possibility of future tremors in the dam's vicinity.