Earthquake gives jolt to Burlington, Ontario neighbourhood

It was just a minor one, but that indeed was an earthquake that rocked a Burlington neighbourhood late last week.

Earthquake Canada confirms that the quake measured 1.6 on the magnitude scale, which is usually not felt but did make an impact this time.

“Wow. What was that?” a member of a Burlington online chat group posted on Dec. 12.

Others soon followed with their own comments after 5:30 p.m.

“That sounded like a plane crash landing.”

“I heard it. A large rumble sound. The house did shake.”

“We heard it. Thought it was an explosion.”

“Felt like a giant rock fell.”

According to the Earthquake Magnitude Scale (different from the Richter Scale), anything measuring 2.5  or less is usually not felt but can be recorded by a seismograph. Millions at this level occur each year yet most people hardly notice. However, if a small one does take place it can be felt if it originates just beneath the earth’s surface. Usually, damage occurs if the quake measures 5.5 on the scale or higher.

Specifically, the origin was centred in the Burloak Drive and New Street area.

There were no reports of damage.