SIKKIM: An earthquake measuring 4.4 on the Richter Scale struck Soreng in Sikkim early this morning at 06:57 IST, as reported by the National Center for Seismology.
The tremors were recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers, with the epicenter located at latitude 27.22°N and longitude 88.33°E in Soreng. Fortunately, there have been no reports of casualties so far.
Just recently, on August 6, a 3.7-magnitude earthquake was also recorded in Kamjong, Manipur. The epicenter of that quake was positioned at latitude 25.00°N and longitude 94.57°E, with a depth of 85 kilometers, according to the National Center for Seismology.
Northeast India is recognized as one of the most seismically active regions in the world, owing to its proximity to two major tectonic plate boundaries—the Indian-Eurasian and the Indian-Burmese plate boundaries. These conditions contribute to significant variations in seismic activity, making the region particularly vulnerable to earthquakes.
In a related development, Japan recently experienced two powerful earthquakes on August 8. The first quake, with a magnitude of 6.9, was followed by a stronger 7.1-magnitude tremor. These quakes struck off the southern island of Kyushu, according to the United States Geological Survey.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that the quakes were centered off the eastern coast of Kyushu at a depth of approximately 30 kilometers. Following the tremors, a tsunami advisory was issued, predicting waves up to 1 meter along Kyushu's southern coast and the nearby island of Shikoku. While operators of nuclear plants in the affected areas are assessing potential damages, there have been reports of broken windows at Miyazaki airport near the epicenter.
Japan on Alert After Two Powerful Earthquakes and Tsunami Warning