Delhi Residents Report Mysterious “Boom” During Earthquake—What Caused It?

Delhi was jolted by a 4.0-magnitude earthquake this morning, with residents reporting a loud sound. Experts explain the science behind the seismic boom.

February 17, 2025: Delhi Earthquake – Residents Report Loud “Boom” During Tremors

A 4.0-magnitude earthquake struck Delhi and its surrounding areas early Monday morning, sending tremors across the national capital region (NCR). While no casualties or injuries were reported, many residents experienced an unexpected loud “boom” during the quake, sparking curiosity and concern.

Also Read: Watch How Delhi Shook Early This Morning

What Was the Loud Sound Heard During the Earthquake?

According to seismologists, the booming sound during the earthquake was due to shallow seismic activity. The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported that the quake originated at a depth of just 5 km, causing high-frequency vibrations that turned into audible sound waves.

Also Read: PM Modi Urges Calm as 4.0-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Delhi, Tremors Felt Across NCR

🔹 US Geological Survey (USGS) Explanation:

• Shallow-focus earthquakes (those near the Earth’s surface) can produce booming or grumbling noises.
• As the ground vibrates, it creates a short-period seismic wave motion, which can travel through the air and be perceived as sound waves.
• The shallower the quake, the louder and more intense the sound.

Fact Check: Some earthquakes even generate sound waves without noticeable tremors, depending on their depth and frequency.

Also Read: Delhi BJP MLAs to Meet on February 17 to Decide CM Candidate

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Why is Delhi Prone to Earthquakes?

🔸 Delhi falls under Seismic Zone IV, which is classified as a high-risk earthquake zone.
🔸 The Himalayan tectonic activity influences seismic movements in North India, as the Indian plate collides with the Eurasian plate.
🔸 The Dhaula Kuan area, the epicenter of today’s quake, has historically recorded multiple low-intensity quakes, including a 3.3-magnitude tremor in 2015.

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Delhi Residents Recount the Earthquake Experience

📢 Eyewitness Accounts:
🚆 “I was at the New Delhi Railway Station when the tremors hit. It felt like a bridge had collapsed.”
🏠 “The shaking was intense. It felt as if a train was rushing past my building. I have never experienced something like this before.”
📹 CCTV footage from Delhi showed water tanks and wires swaying violently, indicating the strength of the tremors.

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Authorities Respond & Safety Measures

🚨 The Delhi Police issued an advisory on X (formerly Twitter), urging residents to stay calm and report emergencies at helpline 112.
🏗️ The Delhi Disaster Management Authority has once again emphasized the importance of earthquake preparedness, given the city’s high seismic vulnerability.

🔍 Key Takeaway: While today’s earthquake did not cause significant damage, the loud boom and tremors serve as a reminder for Delhi residents to stay prepared for future seismic activity.

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Tags:

Delhi Earthquake, 4.0 Magnitude Earthquake, Earthquake Sound Boom, Seismic Zone IV, National Centre for Seismology, Delhi Disaster Preparedness