Earthquakes Canada has confirmed to Sudbury.com that a “mining-related seismic event” took place at Garson mine, and register a 3.1 on the Richter scale, what Earthquakes Canada considers a fairly substantial event, and the reason so many Sudburians felt the earth move at approximately 3:46 this morning.
Vale spokesperson Danica Pagnuitti confirmed the event was mining-related, occurring at the company’s Garson Mine. Though Earthquakes Canada measured 3.1, Vale is reporting an approximate 3.3.
“A seismic event occurred at Vale’s Garson Mine at approximately 3:45 this morning measuring approximately 3.3 in magnitude,” said Pagnuitti in email correspondence. “No one was injured during the event and we immediately implemented our internal seismic response protocol to ensure the safety of our workforce.”
Pagnuitti stated that operations will “ramp Up” following inspection and as the seismic levels in the region subside.
Seismicity, the occurrence or frequency of earthquakes in a region, can occur as part of mining, especially at significant depths, said Pagnuitti.
“Our emergency response processes are in place to ensure rigorous safety protocols are followed when seismic events occur. Residents with questions or concerns may call Vale’s Community Concerns Line at 705-222-VALE (8253).”
