Nepal: In the early hours of Saturday, December 21, Nepal experienced a magnitude 4.8 earthquake, as reported by the National Centre of Seismology (NCS). The tremor struck at precisely 3:59 am Indian Standard Time (IST), sparking concerns among residents in the affected region.
The earthquake’s epicentre was pinpointed at Latitude 29.17 N and Longitude 81.59 E, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres. Shallow quakes like this often have a more noticeable impact, though initial reports indicate minimal disruptions.
Monitoring the Situation As of now, no significant damage or casualties have been reported. Authorities are maintaining vigilance, with emergency response teams prepared to act if needed. Local agencies are actively gathering information to assess the earthquake's impact more comprehensively.
Residents Share Their Experiences
Many residents in the area described feeling the tremor briefly but with noticeable intensity. While the initial quake caused alarm, the situation seems to have stabilized, with no immediate threats reported.
Preparedness and Response
Earthquake-prone regions like Nepal often face challenges in managing such natural events. Experts emphasize the importance of preparedness and rapid response in minimizing risks. Local authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and follow safety protocols in the event of aftershocks.
Earlier this month, a mild earthquake struck the Bajhang district in western Nepal on the December 17. The tremors were also felt in nearby districts. According to data from Nepal's National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre, the country has experienced 16 earthquakes in 2024 so far, with the Bajhang district accounting for five of these seismic events. Western Nepal has been particularly active, recording 50% of the total earthquakes reported across the country from January 1 to date. This highlights the region's vulnerability to seismic activities, underscoring the need for preparedness and monitoring.
Further updates on the earthquake’s impact are awaited as officials continue to monitor the region for any significant developments.