Nepal was shaken by a magnitude 4.0 earthquake early Tuesday morning, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The tremor occurred at 4:39 AM (IST) at a depth of 25 kilometers. The epicenter was recorded at latitude 28.76°N and longitude 82.01°E in western Nepal.
Authorities have not reported any injuries or major damage so far. However, experts warn that aftershocks may follow due to the shallow depth of the quake.“Shallow earthquakes release more energy closer to the surface. This often leads to stronger ground shaking and higher risks of damage,” the NCS explained in a social media update.
Why Earthquakes Are Common in Nepal
Nepal is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries, ranking 11th globally. The country lies along the Himalayan seismic belt, where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates collide. This geological process builds up pressure within the Earth’s crust, which eventually releases as earthquakes.
In addition, Nepal sits in a subduction zone — an area where the Indian Plate moves underneath the Eurasian Plate. This ongoing movement causes stress to accumulate beneath the surface, increasing the risk of tremors. It’s the same movement responsible for the rising Himalayan mountains.
Risks from Earthquakes in Nepal
Many of Nepal’s older buildings, especially in rural areas, are made of unreinforced masonry. These structures are weak and prone to collapse during earthquakes. Nepal’s mountainous terrain and remote villages also make it difficult for emergency teams to quickly reach affected areas.
A government official from the Department of Urban Development and Building Construction told Nepal Monitor:“We’re working to strengthen old structures and improve building codes, but a lot still needs to be done, especially outside major cities.”
A History of Seismic Disasters
Nepal has faced several devastating earthquakes in its history. The April 2015 earthquake, one of the most severe in recent times, measured magnitude 7.8 and claimed nearly 9,000 lives. It destroyed countless homes, temples, and heritage sites, leaving thousands homeless.
Since then, the government has made efforts to improve disaster preparedness. However, challenges remain due to funding, terrain, and public awareness.
What to Do During an Earthquake
Experts suggest following these safety tips if an earthquake strikes:
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Drop, Cover, and Hold On — stay under sturdy furniture.
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Move away from windows and tall furniture.
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If outdoors, stay in an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
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Stay calm and wait for official instructions.
