A moderate earthquake with a magnitude of 5.1 rattled parts of Assam on Monday, causing injuries to two individuals and sending tremors of fear across the northeastern region of India. The seismic event has put authorities and residents on alert.
Tremor Strikes Morigaon District
The epicenter of the quake was located in Assam's Morigaon district, according to data released by the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The agency reported that the earthquake occurred at 7:11 am on April 8, 2024. The tremors originated at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers beneath the earth's surface, which often leads to more intense shaking felt on the ground.
Local officials confirmed that the seismic activity resulted in injuries to two people. The force of the tremor caused panic among residents, many of whom rushed out of their homes and buildings as the ground shook beneath them. The quake's impact was not confined to Morigaon alone.
Widespread Tremors Felt Across Northeast
The effects of the 5.1 magnitude earthquake were felt across a wide swath of the Northeast. Reports indicate that neighboring states, including Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, also experienced the shaking. In the capital city of Assam, Guwahati, buildings swayed, leading to anxious moments for people starting their day.
This event adds to the region's history of seismic activity. The Northeast is classified as Zone V, the highest risk zone on India's seismic map, making it particularly vulnerable to earthquakes. The memory of past destructive quakes remains fresh in the collective consciousness of the area's inhabitants.
Official Response and Aftermath
Following the tremor, disaster management and district administration teams were activated to assess the situation. The focus was on checking for structural damage to buildings, bridges, and critical infrastructure. Fortunately, aside from the two reported injuries, no major casualties or widespread destruction has been immediately reported.
However, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent seismic threat facing the region. Experts consistently urge for strict adherence to earthquake-resistant construction codes and regular preparedness drills. The National Center for Seismology continues to monitor aftershocks, although none significant have been reported so far.
Authorities have advised citizens to remain calm but vigilant. They recommend staying informed through official channels and knowing the safety protocols to follow during and after an earthquake. The quick response by local officials helped prevent further panic and allowed for a swift assessment of the quake's impact.
