Magnitude 3.2 earthquakes hit parts of Ontario and Quebec

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More than 100 incident reports have been filed after a small earthquake struck near Ottawa earlier this week.

According to Earthquakes Canada, the magnitude 3.2 earthquake was felt in the northwestern Ontario city of Hawkesbury at 8:20 a.m. Wednesday, with the epicenter about 80 kilometers east of Ottawa.

Although no injuries were reported, 134 incidents were reported, with the majority of residents reporting either feeling weak or shaking slightly, although some felt moderate to strong vibrations.

The intensity scale describes the effects of an earthquake at a specific location and time. The highest report is for Wednesday's quake with a rating of 5/10, which may include minor damage and strong shaking.

A map showing intensity reports following an earthquake in Ontario on May 15, 2024.

The quake struck at a depth of nine kilometers underground and was reportedly felt in parts of western Quebec.

Quakes are caused by the movement and deformation of tectonic plates and underground rocks, releasing energy that can cause seismic waves and violent tremors. Earthquakes Canada says a quake with a magnitude less than 3.5 will be detected by seismographs but is “generally not felt.” Hundreds of earthquakes occur in Canada every year.

Five significant earthquake events were recorded in Canada in 2023, including magnitude 2.3 and 2.5 quakes in Ontario.

– With files from The Canadian Press

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