From Himachal to Mandalay, back-to-back tremors stir panic across regions already on edge; Myanmar reels from aftershock of last month’s deadly quake, while Tajikistan hit by twin jolts.
New Delhi, April 13, 2025 — A rare cluster of seismic activity shook parts of South and Central Asia on Sunday morning, as four separate earthquakes were reported across India, Myanmar, and Tajikistan within the span of an hour. The tremors triggered panic, with residents fleeing buildings in several towns and cities, highlighting the region’s heightened vulnerability to tectonic shifts.
Himachal Pradesh: Tremors in the Himalayas
The day began with a 3.4-magnitude earthquake striking the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh at 9:00 am, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The quake originated at a shallow depth of 5 km, with its epicenter at 31.49°N and 76.94°E.
Also Read: Magnitude 5 Earthquake Strikes Nepal, Tremors Felt Across North India
Though minor in scale, the quake was widely felt across the region. Many locals reported hearing a low rumble before a brief jolt, prompting them to rush out of homes and workplaces. No casualties or structural damage were reported.
Myanmar: Fresh Aftershock Worsens Public Anxiety
Minutes later, a 5.5-magnitude quake hit near Meiktila in central Myanmar, the US Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed. This was one of the strongest aftershocks following the catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake on March 28, which claimed over 3,600 lives and left thousands injured.
Also Read: Myanmar Earthquake Tragedy: Death Toll Crosses 1,700, Fears Mount of 10,000+ Fatalities
The quake was felt in Mandalay and Naypyitaw, with local residents in towns like Wundwin reporting damage to ceilings and structures. While no new fatalities were reported, the psychological toll remains high. Sources indicated that citizens remain wary of discussing seismic impacts publicly due to the country’s military-led governance.
Tajikistan: Twin Jolts Rock Central Asia
At 9:54 am, a powerful 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck Tajikistan at a depth of 10 km, with an epicenter at 38.86°N and 70.61°E. It was initially estimated at 6.4. Widespread shaking was reported in nearby towns, prompting the evacuation of schools and markets.
Just 42 minutes later, at 10:36 am, a second tremor measuring 3.9 struck the same region. Both quakes were shallow, which increases surface impact and perceived intensity, despite the lower magnitude of the second event.
Understanding the Tremors
Earthquakes are measured using a seismograph, which records energy released during seismic activity. The magnitude indicates the strength of a quake, often measured on the Richter or Moment Magnitude (Mw) scale:
- Magnitude 3–4: Light; rarely causes damage
- Magnitude 5–6: Moderate to strong; can damage poorly built structures
- Magnitude 6+: Strong to major; capable of widespread destruction
Shallower earthquakes, like those seen today, are often felt more intensely on the surface.
Conclusion
The cluster of seismic events has once again brought attention to the tectonic volatility of the Himalayan and Central Asian belts. While immediate damage appears limited, experts warn that preparedness and early warning systems remain crucial as the region continues to experience heightened seismic activity.
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