Earthquake measuring 5.2 on the Richter scale in Romania
A new strong earthquake occurred on Tuesday evening in Arad, Romania, at a depth of less than 10 kilometres. It had a magnitude of 5.2 on the Richter scale and was felt in Timisoara, Oradea and even Cluj-Napoca. Fortunately, it lasted only a few seconds, so the damage is not significant, Radio România Actualități reports.
The strong earthquake on the evening of 6 June caused panic and emergency calls to the 112 number in Arad county. Material damage was insignificant in several areas of the city and county, but the emotional impact was strong, as an earthquake of such intensity has not occurred in the area for 60 years.
Measuring 5.2 on the Richter scale, the quake struck at 8:26 p.m. and lasted about 4 seconds. The people of Arad experienced moments of uncertainty, feeling the effects of the quake both in buildings on the ground and on upper floors. Images of cracks and fissures in newly built blocks in Arad immediately appeared on social media, sparking concern.
The national emergency call service 112 also registered 18 calls about detached building elements such as chimneys and pieces of facade. However, no serious incidents or casualties were reported as a result of the earthquake.
The mayor of Arad, Călin Bibarț, went on the spot and made statements, threatening fines for owners who did not renovate their buildings in accordance with the law.
"Obviously, old buildings, unkempt buildings now show their less pleasant face. It's a good thing they didn't fall down, they could have fallen on a passerby or somebody's head. We will also continue with fines and surcharges for all those who don't want to and don't understand that they have not only rights as property owners but also obligations," the mayor said.
Many Arad residents immediately after the earthquake preferred to go outdoors, seeking refuge in parks and open spaces to protect themselves in case of aftershocks or other unexpected events.
