Residents invited to discuss earthquake damage and improvements after 3.0 tremor near Eleveld
A recent 3.0 magnitude earthquake near the Eleveld gas field has prompted the municipality of Midden-Drenthe to host an open house meeting. Residents can learn about damage reporting, past issues, and new steps toward a fairer settlement process.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Earthquake Date | March 14, 2026 |
| Magnitude | 3.0 on the Richter scale |
| Location | Near the closed Eleveld gas field |
| Meeting Date | March 25, 2026 |
| Meeting Time | 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
| Meeting Location | Dorpshuis Hooghalen, Stengelinstraat 18, Hooghalen |
| Organizer | Municipality of Midden-Drenthe |
| Key Attendees | Mayor Jan Zwiers, Alderman Jan Schipper, municipal employees |
| Damage Reporting Website | Commissie Mijnbouwschade |
The municipality of Midden-Drenthe plays a supportive role in assisting residents affected by earthquakes linked to gas extraction. While it does not assess damage directly, it facilitates the process by providing information, guiding residents to the appropriate authorities, and advocating for fair and transparent damage settlements.
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Open house evening about earthquake near Eleveld gas field
March 18 - On March 14, 2026, an earthquake occurred near the closed Eleveld gas field. The quake measured 3.0 on the Richter scale. This is a significant tremor, and as a result, we as the municipality are concerned.
On the same day, the municipality of Aa en Hunze organized a meeting for residents. Our residents were able to attend. The municipality of Aa en Hunze has extensive experience with this issue, and we are happy to work with them.
Background and evaluation of damage handling
In 2023, there was also an earthquake near the gas field. The damage handling from that time was later reviewed. The investigation revealed that this approach was unreasonable for many residents. For this reason, the municipalities are now working together to improve the damage settlement process. We are developing an approach that is fair, humane, and straightforward, and the first steps have already been taken. More information is now available. We believe it is important to continue the dialogue with our residents about this. That is why we are organizing an open house meeting.
Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Dorpshuis Hooghalen, Stengelinstraat 18, Hooghalen
During this evening, we will provide a brief explanation of the following points:
- The history and evaluation of the damage settlement
- What exactly happened
- Which steps have already been taken
- How to report damage
During the meeting, Mayor Jan Zwiers, Alderman Jan Schipper, and municipal employees will be available to engage in conversation with you and listen to your concerns. You can drop in freely and discuss your questions or worries one-on-one with us.
Unable to attend? The most important information is also available on our website.
Reporting damage
Have you suffered damage due to the earthquake? Always report this to the Commissie Mijnbouwschade.
You will receive confirmation within a week. Within two weeks, you will be informed of any additional data required and the next steps.
Have you previously suffered damage?
New damage or damage that has worsened can be reported again via the same website.
Role of the municipality
The municipality does not assess damage itself. However, we explain how the procedure works and refer you to the appropriate authority. Together with the municipalities of Assen and Aa en Hunze, we are committed to a damage settlement process that is fair, straightforward, and humane. We are in discussions about this with the Ministry and other involved parties.