Early on Friday, a powerful earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale hit Nepal. The epicenter was in Bhairavkunda, Sindhupalchowk district, about 65 kilometers east of Kathmandu. The quake occurred at 2:51 a.m. local time, causing widespread panic in the central and eastern regions of Nepal.
The earthquake sent shockwaves through Nepal, shaking homes and waking residents. Despite the significant tremors, there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. However, local authorities are still assessing the situation to ensure public safety.
Tremors from the earthquake were also felt in neighboring regions, including Bihar, Siliguri, and other parts of India, as well as in Tibet. Social media posts showed buildings and ceiling fans shaking in Patna, Sikkim, and Darjeeling, highlighting the quake’s extensive reach.
Nepal is situated in one of the world’s most seismically active zones, where the Indian tectonic plate collides with the Eurasian plate. This geological activity not only forms the Himalayas but also generates immense stress beneath the Earth’s surface, leading to frequent earthquakes. The country’s young and unstable rock formations amplify the impact of these seismic events, making Nepal particularly vulnerable to earthquake damage.
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The 2015 earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.8, resulted in over 9,000 deaths and left millions of buildings damaged or destroyed. Given this history, even moderate earthquakes raise concerns about potential aftershocks and long-term damage.
Authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant for possible aftershocks, as secondary tremors are common after major seismic events. Nepal’s disaster response teams are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in the face of such natural disasters.
On Friday, another earthquake with a magnitude of 4.5 struck Pakistan, further highlighting the seismic activity in the region. This event occurred at around 5:14 a.m. local time.
