A mild earthquake measuring 4.6 on the Richter scale shook parts of Assam and neighboring Bhutan early on Sunday morning, October 13, at 7:47 a.m. IST. According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the tremor’s epicenter was located near Udalguri, Assam, with a depth of 15 kilometers. The coordinates of the quake were 26.73° N latitude and 92.31° E longitude.
The tremors were felt across several regions, including Dhekiajuli, Tawang, Barpeta, Goalpara, North Lakhimpur, Itanagar, Jorhat, Tezpur, Golaghat, Guwahati, Nagaon, and Dimapur. Fortunately, no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage have been reported.
Main Points
Earthquake Overview
The earthquake struck with a magnitude of 4.6 and was felt for several seconds. Residents in various towns experienced shaking that caused brief panic but no major disruptions. The NCS confirmed that the earthquake occurred in a region known for its seismic activity.
Affected Areas
The tremors were widely felt throughout Assam and reached as far as Bhutan. In Assam, cities like Guwahati and Jorhat reported noticeable shaking. People in these areas described feeling their homes sway and hearing objects rattle. The regions affected include:
- Dhekiajuli
- Tawang
- Barpeta
- Goalpara
- North Lakhimpur
- Itanagar
- Jorhat
- Tezpur
- Golaghat
- Guwahati
- Nagaon
- Dimapur
Government Response
Local authorities quickly activated emergency protocols to assess any potential damage. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) is monitoring the situation closely and has advised residents to remain vigilant. They are conducting inspections of public buildings to ensure safety.
Public Reaction
Many residents expressed their feelings of unease following the tremor. Social media platforms saw an influx of posts from people sharing their experiences during the quake. Some reported minor damages such as cracks in walls but overall, the community remained calm.
Seismic History of Assam
Assam is part of a seismically active zone due to its location near the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. The region has experienced several significant earthquakes in history. For instance, the 1950 Assam-Tibet earthquake registered a magnitude of 8.6 and caused widespread devastation.
Preparedness Measures
In light of this recent quake, officials are emphasizing the importance of earthquake preparedness among residents. They are encouraging families to create emergency plans and assemble disaster kits containing essential supplies like food, water, and first aid items.
Geological Insights
The National Centre for Seismology has noted that while a magnitude of 4.6 is considered mild, it serves as a reminder for the region’s vulnerability to larger seismic events. The Kopili Fault system runs through Assam and into Bhutan and is known for its historical seismic activity.
Community Education Initiatives
Local governments are planning to conduct community workshops aimed at educating residents about earthquake safety measures. These initiatives will focus on teaching people how to respond during an earthquake and how to secure their homes against potential damage.
