A devastating earthquake had hit Lake Kivu, located in DR Congo, on February 3rd, 2008, at 07:34:12 (UTC) With a magnitude of 5.9, 25 lives were taken and another 200 people were injured. The earthquake lasted for about 15 seconds. Geologists found out that the earthquake was caused by the movement of the Africa plate on the west, and the Somalia plate on the east.
Neighbouring Rwanda was also affected. 34 people had died, in additional of ten people were killed when a church collapsed, in the West Province in Rwanda. Another five people and 13 people were certified dead, in Bukavu, and other parts of Rusizi and Nyamesheke district respectively. An official from the UN peacemaking mission in DR Congo mentioned that the damages in Bukavu were devastating. Many buildings had been hit and lots of houses had completely collapsed.
The Government informed the AFP news agency about the continuation of rescue operations, and the police and soldiers pulling people out from the ruins of their houses.
To prevent such damages, I think there are many ways that can be used. For example, rubber paddings can be added underneath buildings. This way, the building will not be affected so much by the vibrations. Mental preparedness is also important in an earthquake-prone country. In some countries, the gorvernment encourages the citizens to prepare a kit with enough supply of food for three days.
This news is written by Shanise Choong, journalist of DR Congo.
The Government informed the AFP news agency about the continuation of rescue operations, and the police and soldiers pulling people out from the ruins of their houses.
To prevent such damages, I think there are many ways that can be used. For example, rubber paddings can be added underneath buildings. This way, the building will not be affected so much by the vibrations. Mental preparedness is also important in an earthquake-prone country. In some countries, the gorvernment encourages the citizens to prepare a kit with enough supply of food for three days.
This news is written by Shanise Choong, journalist of DR Congo.