Tanzania: Panic as tremor shakes Mbeya

What you need to know:

The tremor, which also felt in some neighbouring regions, began at 12.18pm, sending people running from houses, offices and business premises in Mbeya City, but there were no immediate reports of casualties

Mbeya. A tremor shook Mbeya Region Thursday, sparking panic among residents.

There were no immediate reports of casualties from the tremor, which was also felt in some neighbouring regions.

The tremor began at 12.18pm, sending people running from houses, offices and business premises in Mbeya City.

People were seen milling on the streets, some with documents they were working on when the tremor struck.

Mbeya mayor David Mwashilindi and city executive director James Kasusura were among those who fled buildings that were shaken by the tremor.

“I didn’t know you could run as fast as you did,” Mr Kasusura was overheard telling Mr Mwashilindi jokingly.

“I was discussing something with the mayor when I noticed chairs moving around. The mayor was out of the office in a flash,” Mr Kasusura said.