Recent tremors in Assam spark safety concerns among local residents

An earthquake of magnitude 4.4 rattled the Udalguri district in Assam on Saturday evening. This seismic event occurred at approximately 6:12 PM IST, sending a wave of concern through various parts of the state. According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the tremor originated at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres below the earth's surface.

The epicentre of this Assam earthquake today was pinpointed at latitude 26.72° North and longitude 92.31° East. While the magnitude was moderate, the shallow depth of the quake meant that Guwahati tremors and vibrations in nearby districts were felt quite distinctly by residents. Many people reportedly rushed out of their homes as a precautionary measure, though there have been no immediate reports of significant property damage or casualties.

Assam and the wider Northeast seismic zone are well-known for being geologically active. The region frequently experiences tremors due to its proximity to the Kopili Fault, a major tectonic feature that has been the source of several significant earthquakes in the past. Today's incident serves as another reminder of the high-risk seismic nature of the Brahmaputra Valley and its surrounding hills.

Following the event, the NCS shared the technical details on social media platform X, urging citizens to stay informed through official channels. They recommended using the BhooKamp App for real-time updates and seismic data. Local authorities in the Udalguri district are currently monitoring the situation to ensure public safety and to check for any minor structural impacts in rural areas.

As of now, the situation remains calm but alert. Experts continue to emphasize the importance of disaster preparedness in high-risk zones. Residents are advised to follow standard safety protocols during aftershocks, such as "Drop, Cover, and Hold on," and to keep emergency kits ready.