The Meteorological Services has confirmed that an earthquake had occurred southwest of Sumatra (approximately 1,237 km from Singapore) on 2 March 2016 (Wednesday) at about 8.49pm. The earthquake recorded a magnitude of 7.9 on the Richter scale. Earth tremors were subsequently felt in certain parts of Singapore at about 8.53pm on the same day.
The Police and the SCDF have received several calls from the public reporting these tremors which were felt mainly in the central and eastern areas of Singapore. There were no reports of injury or law and order incident.
Members of public who were indoors and felt the tremors have been advised to take cover under a table and keep away from items made of glass or any hanging objects. They were also advised not use the lift or use any naked light, in case there is a gas leak. For those who were outdoors, they have been advised to keep away from buildings and overhead electrical cables.
The Building & Construction Authority (BCA) and the Housing & Development Board (HDB) have visually inspected and found the reported buildings to be structurally safe. They would like to assure the public that buildings in Singapore are designed to established building codes and are sufficiently robust to withstand tremors caused by distant earthquakes.
Residents or occupants in public housing estates should call the Housing & Development Board’s Emergency Service Providers’ 24-Hour Hotline at 6241 7711 and 6275 5555, while those in private buildings should call the Building & Construction Authority at 1800-3425 222 should they spot cracks or other structural defects.
No new reports of tremors have been received by the Police and SCDF following the latest aftershock in Sumatra.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
03 March 2016 @ 1:20 AM