According to Geoscience Australia, the 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Mansfield, 180 km northeast of Melbourne, at 9:15 am today, 22nd September 2021.

5.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Victoria!

Initially, the earthquake was recorded at 6.0 magnitude but was later revised down to 5.9 magnitude to eventually 5.8 magnitude. The tremors lasted for around 30 seconds. Eighteen minutes later, the first 4.0 magnitude aftershock was recorded. Another 3.1 magnitude quake was recorded at 10:15 am.

Deputy Premier James Merlino claimed that the state was on alert. VicEmergency urged Victorians to remain on alert.

The state emergencies are on alert, as the affected area is at potential risk of further earthquakes and aftershocks that can occur for weeks and months, according to Geoscience.

Though Mr. Merlino did not feel the earthquake, his wife and kids felt the tremors. He said:

Please take care, Keep observing the EMV Alerts and warnings that have been issued, and there will be more to say later in the day.

As per survey and agency, more than 26 thousand felt the earthquake.

At this stage, there are no any reports of injury but damaged buildings in the epicenter of Mansfield. Deputy Premier Merlino claimed that around 46 minor building damage complaints have been received across the state, including Melbourne suburbs of Kensington, Parkdale, Balwyn, Ascot Vale, Prahran, Northcote, West Melbourne, and Elsternwick.

Beechworth Hospital lost power in the morning, but the problem has been solved with backup generators. Around 35 thousand residents lost power, but most of the power problems in the state have been resolved.

Incident control centers have been established in Manfield, Dandenong, and Benalla in response to the natural calamity.

Speaking from Washington DC, Prime Minister Scott Morrison reported of having no serious injuries at the stage. He said:

That is very good news, and we hope that good news will continue.

Mr. Morrison admitted of being in contact with the Federal Government and Premier Daniel Andrews. He also promised to provide every kind of assistance, including ADF support, in case of a requirement.

Mr. Morrison also asked Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce and Emergency Management Minister Bridget McKenzie to inform him about developments.

A local Patrick around Chapel Street said that he thought the rattling of the building was because of the tunnel works happening near him.

Many buildings have been evacuated in the morning as a precaution, including Channel 9 headquarters in Docklands.

Emergency Victoria’s website advised Victorians to keep an eye on the website for the latest information.

The post Australia Faces One Of The Most Destructive Earthquakes In History; 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Victoria! appeared first on The TeleGram.