A moderate earthquake rattled parts of Bulgaria this morning, according to the National Institute of Geophysics, Geodesy and Geography at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences.
The tremor occurred at 9:01 a.m. local time and registered a magnitude of 3.4 on the Richter scale. The epicenter was pinpointed 7.9 kilometers east of Sungurlare, near the city of Sliven.
Authorities confirmed that the earthquake struck at a depth of 17 kilometers. Residents in Sungurlare and surrounding communities reported feeling the tremors, though the shaking lasted only briefly.
Despite the strength of the quake, officials stated that no injuries or significant property damage have been reported so far. Emergency services have been alerted but have not reported any major incidents.
The earthquake occurred approximately 290 kilometers from Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. The National Institute continues to monitor seismic activity closely to ensure that no further risk threatens the region.
Local residents described a sudden shaking that caused minor disruptions but no panic. “It was strong enough to rattle windows, but thankfully, everyone is safe,” said a Sungurlare resident.
Experts say that earthquakes of this magnitude are generally considered moderate and rarely result in severe damage, though monitoring remains essential. Bulgaria, located in a seismically active region of Europe, occasionally experiences minor tremors throughout the year.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow standard earthquake safety measures, including staying away from windows and securing heavy objects. No evacuation or emergency measures have been deemed necessary.
The National Institute emphasized that while this tremor was noticeable, it does not indicate a larger, impending seismic event. Researchers continue to collect data to improve preparedness for future earthquakes.
Local municipalities have inspected key infrastructure and report no visible damage to public buildings, roads, or bridges. Officials advise residents to report any structural concerns promptly.
Bulgaria’s seismic monitoring system ensures rapid notification and assessment of earthquakes. This system helps authorities respond efficiently and provide timely updates to the public.
The recent tremor serves as a reminder of the region’s seismic activity and the importance of awareness and preparedness. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels.
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