Seattle Shudders as ‘Mini-Quake’ Shakes Buildings

Seattle Shudders as ‘Mini-Quake’ Shakes BuildingsSeattle Shudders as ‘Mini-Quake’ Shakes Buildings Seattle residents were startled by a small earthquake that shook the city on Tuesday morning, sending buildings swaying and leaving many wondering what caused the tremors. According to the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network (PNSN), the magnitude 3.1 quake occurred at 8:17 a.m. PDT, approximately 12 miles northeast of Seattle. The epicenter was near the town of Lake Forest Park. While the quake was relatively small, it was widely felt throughout the Seattle metropolitan area. Buildings in downtown Seattle, including numerous high-rises, reported shaking and swaying. “My desk was vibrating, and I could see the blinds moving,” said one employee working in an office building in Pioneer Square. “It was a little scary, but it only lasted for a few seconds.” Emergency responders received numerous calls from concerned citizens, but there were no reports of major damage or injuries. Scientists with the PNSN said that the quake was likely caused by movement along a known fault line in the area. They emphasized that small earthquakes are common in the Puget Sound region and are not typically a cause for alarm. “This was a reminder that we live in an earthquake-prone area,” said Harold Tobin, a seismologist with the PNSN. “It’s important to be prepared and know what to do in the event of a larger quake.” Seattle officials urged residents to update their emergency preparedness kits and practice emergency drills. They also recommended downloading earthquake safety apps and signing up for emergency alerts. The ‘mini-quake’ left many Seattle residents shaken but also relieved that it was not more severe. Authorities continued to monitor the situation and assure the public that there was no immediate threat of further significant earthquakes.