3.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Western Australia

A 3.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Wyalkatchem in Western Australia's central Wheatbelt on Thursday evening, causing tremors felt across nearby towns. The quake occurred at a depth of 6 kilometers at 6:40 PM, with subsequent aftershocks recorded at 2:25 AM and 3:50 AM, measuring 2.2 and 2.9 in magnitude, respectively. The tremors were reported in towns such as South Yelbeni, North Baandee, Kununoppin, and Korrelocking, although GeoScience Australia noted only two felt reports for the initial quake and no damage to infrastructure. Wyalkatchem, a rural town with a population of 358 according to the 2021 Census, experienced these seismic events just over a week after a 4.1 magnitude earthquake near Woods Point, Victoria. That tremor generated over 1,500 felt reports, with residents describing the experience on social media, noting it woke them up and rattled windows. The recent earthquake is the largest to hit the area since June of the previous year, when a 4.7 magnitude quake was recorded in Victoria's alpine region. The region has a history of seismic activity, including a significant 5.9 magnitude tremor in September 2021. As of now, authorities have not reported any significant damage or injuries resulting from the quakes, and residents are advised to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks in the coming days.