Magnitude 4.6 Earthquake Strikes Doda, Jammu and Kashmir Early Sunday
An earthquake measuring 4.6 on the Richter scale struck the Doda region in Jammu and Kashmir at 4:32 am on Sunday, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). The seismic event occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, with its epicentre precisely located at latitude 33.090 N and longitude 75.928 E.
Details from the National Centre for Seismology
The National Centre for Seismology provided detailed information about the earthquake, confirming its magnitude, timing, and location. In a post on X, the NCS stated: "EQ of M: 3.0, On: 12/04/2026 04:37:19 IST, Lat: 33.090 N, Long: 75.928 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Doda, Jammu and Kashmir." This data highlights the precise nature of the event, which was recorded early in the morning, potentially affecting local residents and infrastructure.
Understanding Earthquake Depths
Earthquakes can occur at varying depths, ranging from the Earth's surface to approximately 700 kilometers below. For scientific classification, this depth range is divided into three main categories: shallow, intermediate, and deep, based on data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
- Shallow earthquakes occur at depths of 0 to 70 kilometers.
- Intermediate earthquakes take place between 70 and 300 kilometers.
- Deep earthquakes are those between 300 and 700 kilometers.
Generally, earthquakes deeper than 70 kilometers are referred to as "deep-focus earthquakes," as noted by the USGS. The recent earthquake in Doda, with its 10-kilometer depth, falls into the shallow category, which can often be felt more strongly at the surface due to proximity to populated areas.
This incident underscores the seismic activity in the region, with authorities monitoring for any aftershocks or related impacts. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels for real-time updates and safety guidelines.
