Tremor hits parts of Meru, Embu and Tharaka-Nithi

An earth tremor hit parts of eastern region on Sunday night, throwing residents into shock and panic but no damages or injuries were reported.

Kenya Meteorological Department Deputy Director Ayub Shaka said: “Yes, I have confirmed with our county officers in those areas. There were tremors between 8pm and 12am last night.”

Meru County Director of Meteorological Services Nyaga Kaburu said the tremor occurred at around 11.30pm and was felt in parts of Meru, Embu and Tharaka-Nithi counties.

Mr Kaburu on Monday said he was yet to get more information regarding the tremor that lasted seven to 10 seconds because the county does not have a seismic station.

Its epicentre, he added, was also yet to be established.

“It is true that there were tremors. We are yet to get its magnitude and proper confirmation from our headquarters if there were any damages caused in areas where it was experienced,” Mr Kaburu said.

INVESTIGATING CAUSE

The official said it was not immediately clear what caused the tremor.

Some people who called the Nation said they were jolted in their beds as they slept.

“I was just about to retire to bed when the house moved and the windows shook,” said Mr Dennis Mbugua.

Embu County director of meteorological services John Nguyo said he was contacting officials on the ground to get more information on the reported tremor.

“We are talking to people in areas prone to tremors. We will give official communication once we get it from our headquarters,” Mr Nguyo said.

Kenyans made enquiries on social media regarding the reported tremors.

@NjiruskyMedia tweeted: “The earth tremor waves were experienced in Kirinyaga, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, Meru and some parts of Isiolo.”

@xteenkarimi asked: “Has anyone felt (an) earthquake/tremor?”