4.8 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Sydney

A significant earthquake, revised to a magnitude of 5, struck Denman, located 120 kilometers north-west of Newcastle, at 12:02 PM on Friday. The quake, which occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, is noted as the largest seismic event in the area in two decades. The State Emergency Service (SES) reported receiving 21 calls within two hours of the quake, indicating minor infrastructure damage. The tremors were felt most intensely approximately 20 minutes from Denman, particularly around Muswellbrook, as indicated by Geoscience Australia. Witnesses described the event as more than just a tremor, with one resident in Scone reporting cracked walls and a shaking house. Social media was abuzz with reactions, as residents from as far as Cranebrook in western Sydney also reported feeling the quake, although some described it as not particularly severe. Many Sydney residents expressed their surprise on social media, with comments highlighting the novelty of experiencing an earthquake. A Newcastle resident noted their house shook during the event, further emphasizing the quake's reach. Experts have warned that aftershocks may continue for weeks, although the most significant aftershocks typically occur shortly after the main quake. In the past 20 years, over 150 seismic events have been recorded in the region, but this earthquake stands out as the most powerful, prompting discussions about the area's seismic activity and preparedness for future events.