Seismologist warns of possible further tremors in Kuzbass

The likelihood of further tremors in Russia’s Kemerovo region could remain elevated for about a week after the October 10 earthquake, seismologist Konstantin Ryabinkin said.

Speaking to 5-tv.ru, Ryabinkin explained that a strong initial earthquake can leave an increased probability of subsequent seismic events for several days. He said specialists responsible for the area had stepped up monitoring. His assessment concerned a possibility rather than a certainty that another earthquake would occur.

The October 10 earthquake had a reported magnitude of 4.9, the outlet said. Its epicentre was 17 kilometres northwest of Kiselyovsk. Residents felt the shaking inside homes, although the tremors lasted only a few seconds.

Residents described cracks in walls and goods falling from shop shelves. These were eyewitness accounts rather than findings from building inspections. The accounts provided no estimate of the overall damage.

A resident identified as Yevgeniya described walls swaying and fear of another tremor. Her account conveyed the sensation and anxiety she experienced. The seismologist’s comments did not predict a precise time or magnitude for any subsequent event.