Kathmandu Shaken by 4.8 Magnitude Earthquake, No Major Damage Reported Yet

Kathmandu experienced a tremor early Saturday morning as a 4.8 magnitude earthquake jolted the region, with its epicentre located near the Pandusain village in the Bajura district of northwestern Nepal. The National Center for Seismology reported that the quake struck at precisely 3:59 am Indian Standard Time, originating from a depth of 10 kilometers beneath the earth’s surface, at coordinates 29.17 north latitude and 81.59 east longitude. Fortunately, initial reports indicate that there have been no casualties or significant damage to infrastructure resulting from this seismic event. However, the occurrence serves as a stark reminder of the persistent earthquake risk that looms over Nepal, a nation situated in a seismically active zone. The geographical setting of Nepal makes it highly susceptible to earthquakes, a reality underscored by the National Society for Earthquake Technology (NSET). This organization notes that the majority of the world’s earthquakes occur along the circum-Pacific belt and the Alpine belt, which includes regions such as the Himalayas and the East Indies. These areas are characterized by dynamic tectonic activity at the boundaries of tectonic plates, where approximately 95% of seismic activity is concentrated. Historical data from the NSET highlights the alarming frequency of significant earthquakes in Nepal. On average, the country can expect two major earthquakes, registering between 7.5 and 8 on the Richter scale, approximately every 40 years. Moreover, it is predicted that a catastrophic earthquake of magnitude 8 may strike the region roughly every 80 years. As the nation processes the tremors of this latest earthquake, it serves as an important reminder for both local authorities and residents to remain vigilant and prepared for the potential of future seismic events. Awareness, preparedness, and timely response mechanisms are crucial in mitigating risks and ensuring safety in a region that is no stranger to the devastating impacts of earthquakes.