Mild earthquake detected in Myanmar near northern Thailand
A magnitude 2.5 earthquake was detected in Myanmar, around 199 kilometres northwest of Mae Hong Son’s Mueang district, with officials advising the public to follow official updates.
A mild earthquake was detected in Myanmar early on June 12, close to Thailand’s northern region, according to the Earthquake Observation Division of the Thai Meteorological Department.
The department reported that the quake occurred at 4.05am. It measured magnitude 2.5 and had its epicentre at 20.114 degrees north latitude and 96.275 degrees east longitude.
The tremor was detected near Thailand’s northern border, about 199 kilometres northwest of Mueang district in Mae Hong Son province.
How worrying is a magnitude 2.5 earthquake?
Some people may feel concerned when hearing reports of an earthquake, particularly those living near border areas. However, based on geological assessment, a magnitude 2.5 earthquake is considered very minor.
Generally, earthquakes at this level are often not felt by people but can be detected by monitoring instruments. USGS information also notes that people typically report feeling earthquakes larger than about magnitude 3.0, though this can depend on location, depth and local ground conditions.
The general intensity levels are as follows:
- Magnitude 1.0-2.9, very minor: Usually not felt by people, but detected by instruments.
- Magnitude 3.0-3.9, minor: People indoors may feel shaking similar to a lorry passing nearby.
- Magnitude 4.0-4.9, moderate: Household objects may shake, windows may rattle and noise may be heard.
- Magnitude 5.0-5.9, strong: Furniture may move and cracks may begin to appear in walls.
- Magnitude 6.0-6.9, very strong: Weak buildings may be damaged or collapse.
- Magnitude 7.0 and above, major to severe: Many buildings may collapse and ground rupture may occur.
How to check real-time earthquake information
For safety and to avoid panic caused by fake news, people are advised to monitor earthquake updates through official government channels.
Information can be checked via the Earthquake Observation Division of the Thai Meteorological Department’s official website, or through the Earthquake TMD application, which is available on both iOS and Android.
