While You're Waiting ... Aftershocks Possible In Hyattsville

Be advised there may be more tremors after today's 5.9 magnitude earthquake, which was followed by a 2.8 magnitude aftershock the USGS reported at 2:46 pm.

Mike Blanpied, USGS associate coordinator for the earthquake hazards program, said there could be more aftershocks and they could go up to 5 in magnitude.

“Aftershocks could go on for days, weeks, or even months. They’re most likely to be felt under the next three or four days,” Blanpied said, as reported by the Washington Post.

The aftershocks are generally, but not always, of a lesser degree than the original earthquake, according to Thomas Jordan, director of the Southern California Earthquake Center, as reported by sussexcountian.com

Jordan recommended removing any heavy or breakable objects that could fall and injure someone.

“A lot of people are injured by stuff falling, so make sure that big rock you picked up on vacation isn’t sitting on a shelf,” he said. “The chances of getting large shakes are small, but my advice would be to do now what you should be doing all along.”

Prince George’s County is advising residents to only use 911 for emergency calls. Unless there is an injury requiring immediate attention, please turn to your local news channel for additional information, a press release stated.

The majority of structures will be safe. But take a look for things such as:

• Any new cracks that exceed 1/4 inch, or the width of a finger. 
• Displaced walls or beams in the basement and on each floor.
• Walls that bow or lean in a way that is obvious to the eye. 

If you find any of these, the county advises you to evacuate the building until an inspection by a qualified engineer or building inspector can be performed. Also, take a look at gas pipes and smell for any leaks. If you smell gas, get out immediately and call the gas company.