A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 struck Nepal early Friday morning, sending tremors across the region. People in Nepal, northern India, and Tibet, China, felt the shaking. Many in Patna, Bihar, reported seeing their homes tremble. Videos on social media showed fans swaying and objects moving. A user on X said the tremors lasted for “a good 35 seconds.”
Nepal’s Earthquake Details
The National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Center in Nepal confirmed the earthquake. It happened at 2:51 AM local time. The epicenter was in Sindhupalchowk District, near Bhairavkunda in the central region of Nepal. The area is in one of the most active seismic zones in the world.
Tremors in Bihar and Other Areas
In India, tremors were felt across Bihar, especially in Patna. Many residents woke up in the middle of the night. Some rushed out of their homes in fear. Social media users shared videos showing shaking rooms and moving furniture. One person posted, “It was the longest tremor I have ever felt.”
Apart from Nepal and India, the earthquake’s effects reached Tibet, China. Reports from the border areas confirmed the ground shaking there as well.
Another Earthquake in Pakistan
Hours later, at 5:14 AM IST, another earthquake hit Pakistan. This one had a magnitude of 4.5. Though weaker than the one in Nepal, it added to fears of seismic activity in the region. Authorities in Pakistan are also monitoring the situation.
No Reports of Major Damage Yet
As of now, there are no confirmed reports of major damage or injuries. Authorities in Nepal are assessing the situation. Emergency response teams are on high alert. Nepal has a history of devastating earthquakes, so officials have urged people to stay prepared for possible aftershocks.
Nepal’s High Earthquake Risk
Nepal lies in Seismic Zones IV and V, making it one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world. The region sits on the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. These plates push against each other, leading to frequent earthquakes.
In 2015, Nepal experienced a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake. It killed nearly 9,000 people and destroyed thousands of homes. The disaster left lasting scars on the country. Since then, authorities have worked to improve earthquake preparedness. However, many buildings remain vulnerable.
Emergency Measures and Safety Tips
After the latest earthquake, Nepalese authorities are urging people to stay alert. Residents are advised to avoid damaged buildings and be ready for aftershocks. In India, the Bihar Disaster Management Department is monitoring the situation.
Experts suggest a few key safety tips:
- If indoors, take cover under a sturdy table.
- Stay away from windows and heavy furniture.
- If outside, move to an open area away from buildings.
- After the shaking stops, check for gas leaks and damaged electrical lines.
Seismic Activity in the Himalayan Region
The Himalayan region has always been seismically active. The Indian plate is moving under the Eurasian plate at about 2 cm per year. Over time, this movement builds stress, which eventually releases as an earthquake. Scientists warn that the region could experience more strong earthquakes in the future.
The 6.1 magnitude earthquake in Nepal has once again highlighted the region’s vulnerability. While no major damage has been reported, the tremors were widely felt. With Nepal’s history of earthquakes, experts continue to stress the need for preparedness and stronger infrastructure.
For more updates on this and other global news, visit Nepal Monitor.
