7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes: Tremors Felt Across Delhi, Bihar, Nepal and Tibet

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Tremors from a powerful earthquake were felt early Tuesday morning across northern India, including Delhi and NCR as well as Bihar’s capital Patna and other districts. The earthquake which struck at 6:40 am also impacted Nepal and Tibet sending residents fleeing their homes in fear.

Epicenter and Intensity

The earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 had its epicenter 84 km north-northwest of Lobuche in Nepal at a depth of 10 km. The tremors were strongly felt in several Nepalese districts including Kathmandu, Dhading, Sindhupalchowk, Kavre and Makawanpur. Residents across these areas reported significant shaking prompting mass evacuations.

Rising Earthquake Incidents

This event highlights the increasing frequency of earthquakes globally particularly in regions like India and Nepal. Experts attribute these occurrences to movements in the Earth's tectonic plates. The Earth is made up of seven major tectonic plates that constantly shift occasionally causing friction or collisions that lead to earthquakes.

Impact Based on Intensity

The Richter scale measures the magnitude of earthquakes with each level being ten times more powerful than the previous. Here’s how earthquakes of varying magnitudes can impact the environment and infrastructure:

0-1.9: Detected only by seismographs.

2-2.9: Mild tremors.

3-3.9: Feels like a heavy vehicle passing nearby.

4-4.9: Wall-mounted frames may fall.

5-5.9: Furniture shakes.

6-6.9: Cracks in building foundations; damage to upper floors.

7-7.9: Building collapses; underground pipes burst.

8-8.9: Large bridges and buildings collapse.

9+: Catastrophic destruction; tsunamis likely in coastal areas.

Preparedness and Awareness

The recent tremors serve as a reminder of the importance of earthquake preparedness. While the immediate damage from Tuesday’s earthquake appears limited it underscores the potential for more devastating seismic events in the future. Citizens are advised to remain vigilant follow safety protocols, and be prepared for aftershocks.

As earthquake activity increases globally, understanding these natural phenomena and taking preventive measures is crucial to mitigating their impact.