Powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake rocks Nepal, Delhi-NCR trembles!

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck Nepal early Tuesday morning. The tremors shook Delhi-NCR, Bihar, and other parts of North India. The quake occurred at 6:35 AM IST, 93 km northeast of Lobuche, near the Nepal-Tibet border, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Residents in Bihar reported strong tremors, prompting many to rush outdoors in panic. Delhi-NCR also experienced noticeable shaking, though no property damage or casualties have been reported. Emergency teams in both countries are monitoring the aftermath while urging citizens to remain calm and prepare for potential aftershocks.

Nepal, located in a high-risk seismic zone, frequently experiences earthquakes due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. These movements form the Himalayas and contribute to significant geological activity. Lobuche, the area closest to the quake’s epicenter, lies about 150 km from Kathmandu and near Everest Base Camp.

The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) confirmed the earthquake’s epicenter in Xizang, also known as the Tibet Autonomous Region. The coordinates—28.86° North and 87.51° East—place the epicenter at a depth of 10 kilometers. NCS shared the data on social media, highlighting the intensity and location of the quake.

Two more tremors struck the region shortly after the initial quake. At 7:02 AM IST, a 4.7 magnitude earthquake was recorded with its epicenter slightly north of the earlier one. Another tremor, measuring 4.9 in magnitude, occurred at 7:07 AM IST at a greater depth of 30 kilometers. These aftershocks underline the region’s geological volatility.

Nepal’s history includes devastating earthquakes, such as the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, which claimed nearly 9,000 lives and caused widespread destruction. The Himalayan region’s geological setting makes it prone to such natural disasters, necessitating constant preparedness and robust response systems.

Authorities in Nepal and India are assessing the impact while coordinating emergency services. Both nations emphasize the importance of staying vigilant. Residents are advised to avoid structures that may have weakened during the tremors and to follow safety protocols during aftershocks.

In conclusion, while Tuesday’s earthquake caused significant alarm, early reports indicate minimal damage. The event highlights the importance of preparedness in seismically active regions like Nepal and North India.