A strong earthquake measuring 5.2 on the Richter scale struck the Black Sea on Thursday morning, sending tremors felt across the Bulgarian city of Dobrich. The quake was recorded at 10:16 a.m. local time, according to the European Seismological Center (ESC).
The epicenter of the earthquake was situated inland in the Black Sea, near the Turkish coast, approximately 150 kilometers from Bartın County. The quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, prompting immediate concern among residents in the affected regions.
While the ESC assessed the earthquake’s magnitude at 5.2, the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences reported it slightly lower at 5.0 on the Richter scale. Despite the difference in assessment, both institutions confirmed the quake’s intensity and its potential to cause damage.
Residents in Dobrich reported feeling the ground shake, with many expressing alarm and confusion as buildings swayed briefly. “I was in the kitchen when I felt a sudden jolt. It lasted a few seconds, but it felt intense,” shared Maria Petrova, a local resident. “It was frightening, especially since we don’t often experience such earthquakes here.”
Authorities in Dobrich quickly activated emergency response protocols, though no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries were reported. Local officials urged residents to remain calm and to report any structural issues to authorities.
Seismologists have noted that the Black Sea region is not unfamiliar with seismic activity, although earthquakes of this magnitude are relatively rare. The geological composition of the area, influenced by tectonic plates, contributes to occasional tremors, but the recent quake has raised awareness about the need for earthquake preparedness among residents.
In the wake of the earthquake, the Bulgarian government emphasized the importance of monitoring seismic activity and maintaining infrastructure resilience.
“While this earthquake did not result in major damage, it serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with living in a seismically active region,” stated Ivan Georgiev, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Emergency Situations.
The earthquake also garnered attention from social media users, with many sharing their experiences and concerns online. “I didn’t think I would feel an earthquake here in Dobrich,” wrote one Twitter user. “It’s a strange feeling to experience something so powerful.”
In neighboring countries, residents were also alerted to the seismic event, with reports indicating that tremors were felt as far as Varna and Burgas along the Bulgarian coast. However, similar to Dobrich, there have been no significant reports of damage or injuries.
As a precaution, local authorities are expected to conduct inspections of public buildings and critical infrastructure in the coming days to ensure safety standards are maintained. Seismologists continue to monitor the situation, urging the public to stay informed about seismic activity in the region.
The 5.2 magnitude earthquake serves as a reminder of the importance of earthquake preparedness and community resilience. As the region reflects on this seismic event, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and informed, ensuring their safety and the safety of those around them.