Key Points:
- Date & Time: The earthquake occurred at 6:35 am on January 7, with tremors felt across northern India, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.
- Epicenter: The epicenter was Xizang (Tibet) near the Nepal border, with a powerful magnitude of 7.1, considered a severe earthquake.
- Affected Areas: The tremors were felt in Bihar (Supaul, Madhubani), Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and neighboring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and China.
- No Immediate Damage: No reports of casualties or significant damage have emerged so far.
- Recent Activity: A milder earthquake of 3.7 magnitude struck Palghar, Maharashtra, on January 6.
New Delhi: Northern India woke up to terrifying tremors on Tuesday morning, January 7, as a 7.1 magnitude earthquake rattled parts of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. The tremors were not only felt in India but also in neighboring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and China, spreading fear and uncertainty across the region.
Epicenter in Tibet Near Nepal Border
According to the National Center for Seismology, the earthquake struck at 6:35 am, with its epicenter located in Xizang, Tibet, near the Nepal border. The seismic intensity, measured at 7.1, is categorized as severe, capable of causing significant damage in densely populated areas. Fortunately, initial reports suggest no casualties or major property damage.
Bihar Among Hardest Hit States
In India, the earthquake’s tremors were particularly strong in Bihar, with districts like Supaul and Madhubani experiencing noticeable shaking. Similar reports came from parts of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, where people rushed out of their homes in panic. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of concern as residents recounted their experience of the sudden jolt.
Impact Beyond India
The earthquake’s effect extended beyond Indian borders, with tremors reported in Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and China. These regions are part of a tectonically active zone, making them vulnerable to frequent seismic events.
Recent Seismic Activity in Maharashtra
Interestingly, just a day earlier, on January 6, a milder earthquake of 3.7 magnitude was recorded in Palghar district of Maharashtra. Occurring at 4:35 am, the tremors were felt in areas like Bordi, Dapchari, and Talasari. Vivekanand Kadam, head of the District Disaster Management Cell, confirmed that no casualties or property damage occurred due to the lower intensity of this quake.
Preparedness and Awareness
This recent spate of seismic activity serves as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to earthquakes. Authorities are urging residents to stay prepared and follow safety protocols during such emergencies. While the tremors on January 7 have not caused significant damage, the intensity highlights the need for robust disaster preparedness measures.
