5.9 magnitude earthquake hits Milford Sound in New Zealand: Reports

A 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck about 40 Km west of Milford Sound in New Zealand at 9:53 PM on October 24, as per United States Geological Survey.  As per the survey, the epicenter of the quake occurred at around 7:14 pm (UTC) at a depth of 33 kilometers. No casualty or property damage has been reported so far. The country falls in the 'Ring of Fire', an area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean, which is vulnerable to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

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3,300 people reported the quake

About 3,300 people reported to having felt the tremors in the country. The quake was reportedly measured at 5.3 initially and revised to 5.9 later on. Locals of Albert Town, near Wanaka, told the media that they felt sharp jolt then moderate rolling movement. Others in Riversdale, Southland reported that there was shaking in the interiors of houses and lights were swinging. The citizens overall reported of a stronger quake than the ones which occurred earlier in the week. There were two simultaneous quakes on Thursday, cited reports.

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Several aftershocks after the earthquake

A geographical website mentioned that there had been nine aftershocks, ranging from magnitude 1.9 - magnitude 3.4, which is not unexpected for a quake of this size. On the other hand, a Fire Service spokesman told media they have not received any reports of damage. Hawke's Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management Group's page on Facebook has been sharing advice for residents. On Tuesday, a 4.7 magnitude earthquake hit Milford Sound and Queenstown after 10 am and was 5km deep and centered 15km northwest of Milford Sound. New Zealand's Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management also posted about the quake.

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