On March 4th, another strong earthquake hit Almaty. The epicenter was located 31 km south of the city in Kazakhstan. The earthquake had a magnitude of 6.1 and a depth of 10 km. Unlike the previous earthquake on January 23rd, this time the authorities responded promptly. Sirens sounded across the city immediately after the tremors, urging residents not to panic.
As the ground shook, Almaty residents rushed out of their homes and workplaces, some even barefoot. The city faced severe traffic jams, with police officers reassigned to ensure public safety. Taxi prices doubled due to increased demand, and second-shift classes in schools and colleges were canceled.
Despite the chaos, there were no reported casualties. The National Center for Seismological Observations stated that aftershocks may occur but with decreasing intensity. The city's subway was temporarily closed for inspection, with plans to resume service pending approval from the authorities.
While some buildings suffered damage, particularly in schools and universities, experts reassured residents that most structural issues were related to finishing materials rather than the building's integrity. Urban planning authorities set up assessment teams to inspect affected areas.
With 384 reception points established in the city, residents could seek assistance and information easily. This earthquake was the second significant one in Almaty in 2024, with the previous one occurring in January. Despite the challenges, the city remained resilient, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and unity in the face of natural disasters.
