EARTHQUAKES

Dispelling Myths Circulating After Utah Earthquake

Mar 18, 2020, 11:52 AM | Updated: 2:54 pm

Damage can be seen from the earthquake March 18, 2020 (Photo: Chopper 5)...

Damage can be seen from the earthquake March 18, 2020 (Photo: Chopper 5)

(Photo: Chopper 5)

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Utah Division of Emergency Management wants to dispel a few myths that began circulating after a 5.7 magnitude earthquake in northern Utah Wednesday.

According to a statement from UDEM, there are many untruths making the rounds that need to be clarified.

MYTH: Officials are prediction a larger earthquake in the next 30 minutes.

FACT: Earthquakes cannot be predicted. However, UDEM officials are 95 percent certain that the earthquake this morning was the main quake.

MYTH: Officials (FEMA) are telling people to evacuate

FACT: They are not. The earthquake was strong, and it caused damages across the Salt Lake Valley, but people are not being evacuated.

MYTH: Shut off your natural gas.

FACT: Only shut it off if you hear or smell gas escaping.

MYTH: Get in a doorway.

FACT: It’s better to get under a table or desk.

MYTH: There’s a gas shortage.

FACT: All Utah refineries are up and functioning. There’s no need to run out and buy gas.

MORE: Preparedness Is Key To Earthquake Safety

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Dispelling Myths Circulating After Utah Earthquake