4.3 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Guangdong Province; Tremors Felt in Hong Kong
A magnitude 4.3 earthquake struck Guangdong province, China, on June 23, 2025, at 6:48 PM local time, sending mild tremors through Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Observatory confirmed the seismic event, noting its epicenter in Qingyuan, approximately 57 kilometers north of Guangzhou and 180 kilometers northwest of Hong Kong [[3]].
Earthquake Details and Impact
The earthquake’s focal depth was recorded at 10 kilometers. Over 1,500 Hong kong residents reported experiencing the tremors,which were classified as intensity three on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale. This level is comparable to the vibrations caused by passing trucks.
Did You know? The Modified Mercalli intensity Scale measures the effects of an earthquake on the Earth’s surface, humans, objects of nature, and man-made structures.
While Hong Kong experienced only mild shaking, residents in Guangdong province, including those in Guangzhou, Foshan, and Dongguan, reported stronger shaking. Social media posts showed images of minor cracks in highways and rippling water. One Qingyuan resident described the sensation as “being inside a washing machine for two seconds.”
Regional Seismic Activity
Guangdong Province has experienced several earthquakes in recent years.In May 2025, the Hong Kong Observatory detected a magnitude 4.3 earthquake in Heyuan, Guangdong, approximately 160 kilometers east-northeast of Guangzhou [[1]]. Earlier, an undersea earthquake with a magnitude of 4.2 was detected off the coast of Shanwei in Guangdong [[2]].
Pro Tip: Download a seismograph app on yoru smartphone to track seismic activity in real-time.
Earthquake Data Summary
| Location | Magnitude | Date | Time (Local) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qingyuan,Guangdong | 4.3 | June 23, 2025 | 6:48 PM |
| Heyuan, Guangdong | 4.3 | May 29, 2025 | 1:17 PM |
| Off Coast of Shanwei, Guangdong | 4.2 | earlier in 2025 | 2:40 PM |
Preparedness and Safety Measures
While earthquakes are unpredictable, being prepared can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Experts recommend having an emergency kit with essential supplies, knowing the safe spots in your home or workplace, and practicing “drop, cover, and hold on” during an earthquake.
What steps have you taken to prepare for an earthquake? How can communities better prepare for seismic events?
Earthquake Preparedness: Building Resilience in Earthquake-Prone Regions
Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon resulting from the Earth’s crustal movement.The severity of an earthquake is measured using the Richter scale, while the intensity of its effects is measured using the Mercalli scale. Regions located near tectonic plate boundaries are more prone to earthquakes. Effective earthquake preparedness involves a combination of structural engineering, early warning systems, and community education. Building codes in earthquake-prone areas are designed to ensure structures can withstand seismic forces. Regular drills and public awareness campaigns can definitely help individuals and communities respond effectively during an earthquake.
Frequently Asked Questions About Earthquakes
Stay informed and prepared for future seismic events. Share this article to raise awareness and encourage preparedness in your community.
