A 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck Nagaland and several North Eastern states, leaving residents startled but causing no reported loss of life or property damage.
According to National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located in Myanmar at a depth of 106 kilometers below the earth’s surface. The tremors were felt across multiple North Eastern states. However, officials have confirmed that there were no immediate reports of casualties or significant property damage.
This incident is the latest in a series of seismic events that have been recorded in the region this month. North East, part of a seismically active zone, frequently experiences earthquakes due to the complex tectonic activity in the area.
January 2025 has been a particularly active month for earthquakes in the region.
January 2: A 3.1-magnitude earthquake struck Churachandpur district, followed by a 3.8-magnitude quake in Tamenglong district on the same day.
January 5: A 3.1-magnitude tremor was recorded in Kamjong district. January 7: Kangpokpi district experienced a 3.6-magnitude earthquake. January 13: Another quake, measuring 3.3, shook Kangpokpi district.
January 17: Tamenglong district was again affected by a 3.3-magnitude earthquake.
January 21: Meghalaya’s South West Khasi Hills district experienced a 4.1-magnitude earthquake.
The series of tremors highlights the region’s susceptibility to seismic disturbances, which is attributed to its location along the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Understanding Northeast India’s Seismic Activity.
The northeastern region of India lies in Seismic Zone V, the highest-risk zone as per the Bureau of Indian Standards. This zone is prone to frequent and sometimes intense seismic activity due to the ongoing collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate.
The region’s complex geological structure, which includes several active faults, makes it one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the world.
While most earthquakes in the region are of low to moderate intensity, they serve as reminders of the potential risks posed by larger seismic events. Experts stress the importance of preparedness, particularly in urban areas, where higher population density and infrastructure vulnerabilities could amplify the impact of a major earthquake.