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Add as a favourite source on Google Add DutchNews as a favourite source on GoogleAn earthquake measuring 1.6 on the Richter scale has been recorded in Sappermeer, a village in the former Groningen gas field.

The quake struck at a depth of 3km below the surface and triggered dozens of messages to local broadcaster RTV Noord.

One woman living in Froombosch, a neighbouring village, said “everything in the house shook”, while another heard a loud bang and saw her dining table move.

The meteorological agency KNMI classed the incident as an “induced earthquake”, meaning it was caused by human activity such as gas drilling.

The number of earthquakes in Groningen has diminished since the Slochteren gas field was shut down two years ago, but the KNMI has warned that the effects will continue to be felt for years.

Last November a quake measuring 3.4 hit the village of Zeerijip, the second largest ever recorded in the province. A dozen residents were told their homes may no longer be safe to live in.

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