On 4 March 1931, a significant earthquake struck the Blida region of Algeria, with shocks felt differently across multiple localities. The tremors caused minor structural damage in some areas and alarmed residents who recalled past disasters.
Seismic Activity by Locality
- Hmer El Ain (05:40): Violent shaking startled residents and affected houses.
- Hamam Righa (05:45): Mild tremor caused no damage but woke several people.
- Mouzaïa (05:40): North–south oscillation lasted a few seconds; residents took precautions.
- Tamesguida (05:40): Strong west–east movement lasted about twelve seconds; no structural damage.
- Oued El Alleug (05:40): Tremors lasted eight seconds with no accidents reported.
Blida and El Hamdania Reports
- Blida (05:32): Strong east–west shock jolted residents; vertical shaking lasted six seconds. No major damage occurred.
- El Hamdania (01:00–05:30): Light tremors were followed by three circular shocks and a powerful underground explosion lasting 2–3 seconds. Reported damage included:
- Partial destruction of a restaurants
- Two chimneys collapsed
- Debris in a bedrooms without injury
- Ceiling detachment and visible wall cracks
- Nearby grocery shop shaken, goods scattered
- The epicenter was estimated 50–100 meters southwest of the restaurants.
Other Confirmations
- Oued El Alleug: Strong tremors lasting eight seconds; no injuries.
- Mouzaïa: North–south movement with no damage.
Damage Update – 7 March 1931
- El Hamdania Railway Station: Ceilings detached at the iron support belt above the first floor.
- Forest House: Further deterioration; risk of collapse in future quakes.
- First-Floor Ceilings and Walls: Fell and cracked due to repeated tremors.
- Reports recommended installing a seismic recording instrument due to frequent earthquakes.