Thousands of residents across the United States were jolted by earthquake warnings on Thursday morning following a significant seismic event in Utah. The tremor, measuring 4.7 in magnitude, struck just 54 miles outside of Salt Lake City, prompting immediate alerts from authorities.
Timely Alerts Issed by US Geological Survey
The US Geological Survey (USGS) swiftly activated its ShakeAlert system after the quake was detected at 7:49 am local time, which corresponds to 10:49 am Eastern Time. This rapid response aimed to provide crucial seconds of warning to those in affected areas, potentially helping to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.
Widespread Reports of Shaking Across Multiple States
Residents from northern Utah, western Wyoming, and southern Idaho reported feeling the ground shake, indicating the quake's broad reach. The tremors, though moderate in strength, served as a stark reminder of the seismic activity prevalent in this region of the western United States.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available from geological experts and local officials. The event underscores the importance of earthquake preparedness and the role of advanced warning systems like ShakeAlert in safeguarding communities.
