A strong earthquake of magnitude 7.1 struck the Tibet-Nepal border region early Tuesday morning, causing widespread devastation and panic. According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake happened at 6:35 AM (IST) with a focal point located 93 kilometres northeast of Lobuche in Nepal.
The quakes brought about at least 32 fatalities and over 38 injuries. The earthquake also impacted neighbouring nations, with tremors in parts of India, Bhutan, and Tibet. Locales in Bihar detailed noticeable shaking, prompting occupants to evacuate buildings.
This was the strongest earthquake recorded in the region in the past five years. A weaker quake of magnitude 4.2 followed it, and nine earthquakes were recorded in the region within three hours, all exceeding magnitude 4.2.
Earthquake in Nepal
Nepal, an area habitually affected by seismic activity because of the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, endured the worst part of the quake. The focal point, Tingri District in Tibet, is a gateway to the Everest locale.
The earthquake in Nepal disrupted daily life, with buildings shaking and individuals rushing to safety. No significant property damage has been accounted for in Nepal until now; however, authorities are intently monitoring the situation.
Earthquake in Nepal Update
Because of the tragedy, rescue operations have been launched in the affected areas. Emergency teams work energetically to locate survivors and provide help. The earthquake highlights the requirement for better disaster preparedness in the area.
Earthquake in India
Tremors were strongly felt across Delhi-NCR, Bihar, and other parts of North India. In Bihar, occupants announced noticeable shaking, yet no casualties or property damage have been accounted for until now.
Earthquake Can Be Predicted in Advance
Despite advancements in seismic monitoring, earthquakes cannot be predicted accurately. However, areas like Nepal and India utilize early warning systems to give alerts based on seismic activity.
Earthquake Causes and Effects
Earthquakes happen because of the unexpected release of energy caused by the movements of tectonic plates. The effects can range from minor quakes to severe destructions, as found in the 2015 Nepal earthquake, which claimed nearly 9,000 lives and injured more than 22,000 individuals.
FAQs
What is a 10.0 magnitude earthquake?
A 10.0 magnitude earthquake would release unimaginable energy, causing widespread damage across vast areas. Such occasions are hypothetical and have never been recorded.
What is an earthquake, in simple words?
An earthquake is the shaking of the Earth’s surface caused by the movements of structural plates beneath the ground.
How long did the 9.5 earthquake last?
The 1960 Valdivia earthquake in Chile, the most powerful recorded at 9.5 magnitude, lasted approximately 10 minutes.
How big is a 5.0 magnitude earthquake?
A 5.0 magnitude earthquake is viewed as moderate and capable of causing minor damage to buildings, especially if poorly constructed.
