Earthquake detected in Southern Romania near Bucharest

2023-February-14, 15:19 UTC, Magnitude: 5.2

A magnitude 5.2 earthquake hit 64 kilometers (39.7 miles) north of Bucharest, Romania at 15:19 UTC on February 14, 2023, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The quake was felt in the capital, Bucharest, and in other parts of southern Romania.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage. However, the quake was felt strongly in Bucharest, where people reported feeling shaking and hearing a loud noise. The earthquake was also felt in other parts of southern Romania, including the cities of Ploiesti, Brasov, and Sibiu.
The quake is the largest to hit Romania in several years. In 2014, a magnitude 6.0 earthquake hit the southwestern part of the country, causing widespread damage and killing at least 10 people.

Earthquakes are common in Romania, which is located in a seismically active zone. The country is situated on the seismically active Vrancea Zone, which is known for producing large and damaging earthquakes. The Vrancea Zone is part of the Carpathian bend zone, which is a region of high seismic activity that extends from the Alps to the Black Sea.

The most destructive earthquake in Romania's history occurred in 1977 and had a magnitude of 7.4. The quake caused widespread damage and killed more than 1,500 people.

The earthquake on February 14, 2023, is a reminder of the seismic risk in Romania. While the country has a good earthquake preparedness and response system, it is important for residents to be aware of the risks and to take steps to prepare for a possible earthquake.