Parts of Accra experience a 2.8 magnitude earth tremor

This morning, parts of the capital city of Accra experienced a 2.8 magnitude earth tremor, the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) has confirmed in a press release.

According to the Authority, the tremor that occurred at 9.49 am was “slightly felt in High Street, Ridge and other parts of Accra Central”.

In the release signed by the GGSA Acting Director-General, Isaac Kuuwan Mwinbelle, he said, “The epicentre is located 1.5km offshore near James Town in Greater Accra Region.”

“The recorded magnitude is indicative of the extent of the tremor. The earth tremor is a minor one and so it is not expected to cause damage,” he added.

According to the Authority, such occurrences are natural making them “difficult to predict.”

The Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) urged calm among the public signalling there is no cause for alarm as it said people to go about “their normal activities”.

“The Authority is committed to continuously monitoring these events and informing the public appropriately to ensure public safety and minimise risk.

“Education and sensitisation of the public on awareness and response during earth tremors is important and currently being undertaken by the Authority,” it said.

News about earth tremors has become topical after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck on February 6, in southern Turkey close to the Syrian border and was followed by powerful aftershocks.

More than 50,000 people lost their lives in the region as buildings collapsed.

In the wake of the devastation, there has been scrutiny of building codes and construction practices in Turkey.