Significant Earthquake Hits New Zealand Amid Global Seismic Activity Rise

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck near New Zealand’s South Island, causing strong tremors that affected over 4,700 people. Residents were warned to avoid beaches due to dangerous currents. There has also been a recent rise in significant earthquakes globally, including events in Ukraine and Iran.

On March 25, 2023, a robust earthquake measuring 6.7 in magnitude affected the South Island of New Zealand, as reported by Reuters and GeoNet. The seismic event occurred at 14:43 local time, approximately 160 kilometers northwest of the Snares Islands, at a depth of 33 kilometers.

The National Emergency Management Agency urged residents in the Southland and Fiordland regions to avoid beaches and marine areas due to the risk of strong and unusual currents. This alert specifically pertained to the western coast of the South Island, spanning from Milford Sound to Puysegur Point.

Over 4,700 individuals reported feeling the earthquake, with local media documenting incidents of falling objects and noticeable building movements.

In a broader context, there has been a surge in significant earthquakes globally. Recently affected regions have included areas that were previously not regarded as seismically active, such as Ukraine. Notably, an earthquake occurred near Isfahan, Iran, on March 21, near a nuclear facility.

Additionally, earlier in March, a 2.6 magnitude earthquake was noted in Ukraine’s Ternopil region, while a 3.6 magnitude quake struck near Poltava in February.

In summary, New Zealand experienced a substantial earthquake that prompted safety advisories for coastal communities. Meanwhile, the global pattern of seismic activity appears to be shifting, with notable earthquakes emerging in unexpected regions, highlighting an escalating trend of seismic events worldwide.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua