September 22, (THEWILL) – A 5.8 magnitude earthquake has ripped through southeast Australia and damaged houses in Melbourne City.
The earthquake started about 09:15 local time (00:15 GMT) on Wednesday at Mansfield, not far from the Victorian state capital.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said, “We have had no reports of serious injuries and that is very good news.”
The earthquake was also felt in neighbouring South Australia and New South Wales (NSW).
It was followed by two aftershocks of 4.0 and 3.1 magnitude.
While this is one of Australia’s largest earthquakes in recent years, it does not appear to have caused significant damage.
Speaking from the US, Mr Morrison noted earthquakes were uncommon in Australia and “it can be a very, very disturbing event.”
Victoria’s State Emergency Service warned residents to be alert for possible aftershocks.
“If you are located in Victoria, you are in danger. Expect aftershocks, stay away from damaged buildings and other hazards. Avoid driving, except for emergencies,” the authority said.
South Australia Premier Stephen Marshall said his state suffered aftershocks.
Large earthquakes are uncommon in Australia because the continent lies centrally on a tectonic plate.
This quake struck at a shallow depth of 10km (6.5 miles), according to Geosciences Australia. It was initially measured at 6.0 magnitude before being revised to 5.8.
The geoscience agency says Australia experiences a potentially damaging earthquake – defined as above 6.0 magnitude – about every 10 years.
Melbourne, the country’s second largest city, is home to about 5 million people.
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