Earthquake rattles Zimbabwe's Nyanga

A moderate earthquake measuring 4.2 on the local magnitude scale struck neighbouring Mozambique early Wednesday morning, with tremors felt across parts of Nyanga, Makoni and Macheke, raising concern among residents about their safety.

In a statement, the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) confirmed the seismic event, saying its epicentre was located in Mozambique but that the tremors were experienced in several districts of Manicaland Province.

"An earthquake of Local Magnitude 4.2 (ML) occurred on December 17, 2025, at 3:31am local time. The earthquake was felt in Nyanga and surrounding areas. The epicentre was determined to be in Mozambique at latitude -17.838 and longitude 33.171," the MSD said. The department added that it became aware of the quake following a report from the provincial chief meteorological officer, Mr Maringo, while Nyanga District Development Coordinator (DDC) Mr Edmore Chikomo also confirmed feeling the tremor.

The MSD explained that earthquakes along Zimbabwe's eastern border are largely linked to natural tectonic activity associated with the southern tip of the East African Rift System (EARS). As a result, tremors felt in areas such as Nyanga often originate in neighbouring Mozambique, where seismic activity is more pronounced.

Although the earthquake was classified as light, residents reported noticeable ground shaking, prompting fears about possible damage to homes and infrastructure.

Speaking in an interview, Mr Chikomo, who also chairs the Nyanga District Civil Protection Committee, said the tremors were brief and mild.

"The earthquake lasted for about 30 seconds, and we felt it here in Nyanga. It was a mild shaking of the ground. However, there are no reports of property damage or casualties so far," he said. He added that civil protection structures had been activated down to village level to ensure any developments are quickly reported and addressed.

The MSD has not issued further updates regarding aftershocks or additional impacts.

Meanwhile, an official from the MSD's seismology section warned that Manicaland and parts of the Lowveld remain vulnerable to earthquakes because of their geographical location.

"Zimbabwe is divided into three seismic zones. The eastern border carries the highest risk due to the East African Rift System, with most earthquakes occurring in areas such as Chipinge. We also experience tremors in the north linked to Lake Kariba, and in central regions where mining-induced earthquakes sometimes occur," the official said.

Authorities have urged communities to remain vigilant as monitoring continues, noting that the incident highlights the ongoing seismic risk along Zimbabwe's eastern frontier and the importance of preparedness.