5.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Assam, Tremors Felt in South Asia

Post by : Mina Rahman

An earthquake measuring 5.4 on the Richter scale hit Assam, India, early on Monday, causing tremors across multiple South Asian nations and raising alarms among local inhabitants. As reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake's epicenter was in the Dhing area of Assam, originating at a depth of 35 kilometers.

The seismic activity occurred at 4:47 AM Bangladesh time, jolting early risers and leading to widespread panic in the affected regions. Residents in Assam reported vibrating buildings, rattling windows, and items falling, prompting many to evacuate to open spaces as a safety measure. The tremors were also felt across other parts of India, with local officials confirming minor disruptions but no immediate significant damage.

In Bangladesh, particularly in cities like Dhaka and Sylhet, citizens felt noticeable shakes, with reports of furniture swaying and a brief feeling of unease. The earthquake's effects reached beyond India and Bangladesh, with individuals in Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and even some regions in China experiencing mild to moderate shaking.

Emergency response teams in Assam and neighboring areas were quickly deployed to assess critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public buildings, for potential damage. Authorities have urged residents to remain composed, vigilant, and adhere to standard safety protocols, such as avoiding unstable structures and being prepared for aftershocks.

While preliminary reports indicate no significant casualties or injuries, local disaster management teams are closely monitoring the situation. The USGS and regional seismic agencies are tracking aftershocks and providing timely updates for public safety.

Experts have advised communities in earthquake-prone zones to keep emergency kits ready and follow preparedness instructions, as tremors of this scale, despite being moderate, can occasionally lead to localized damage or landslides in susceptible areas.