A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck Delhi this morning, with tremors felt in surrounding areas. The National Centre of Seismology reported the quake’s depth at approximately 5 km. While there were no reported casualties or injuries, residents described hearing a loud sound for a few seconds during the earthquake.
What Caused the Loud Sound?
The loud rumbling sounds during the tremors are typical of shallow-focus earthquakes. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), high-frequency vibrations from shallow quakes generate a booming sound as ground vibrations create short-period seismic waves that transition into audible sound waves in the air. The shallower the epicenter, the greater the energy and sound produced. Sometimes, booming sounds from earthquakes can occur even without noticeable vibrations.
Also Read | Video Shows Moment 4.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hit Delhi-NCR
Delhi’s Earthquake Prone Location
Delhi lies within Seismic Zone IV, an area with relatively high seismic activity, according to the Delhi Disaster Management Authority. This zone typically experiences earthquakes in the 5-6 magnitude range, with occasional 7-8 magnitude events. The seismic zoning is dynamic and subject to change.
The seismicity of North India, including the Himalayas, results from the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. The flexing and energy storage in these colliding plates, followed by a release of that energy via slippage at the plate margins, causes earthquakes.
Shallow earthquakes, originating 5-10 kilometers below the surface, tend to cause more damage than deeper quakes. The Dhuala Kuan area—the epicenter of today’s quake—has experienced smaller, low-magnitude earthquakes every two to three years, including a 3.3 magnitude earthquake in 2015.
Residents Describe the Earthquake
The earthquake tremors woke Delhi residents Monday morning, with many describing it as “one of the most insane earthquakes.” Videos captured the earthquake’s impact, including CCTV footage showing significant movement of tank pipes and wires on a house terrace.
One person at New Delhi Railway Station described the tremors as feeling like a “bridge collapse,” prompting a rush to evacuate the waiting lounge. Another resident recounted strong tremors, feeling like a nearby moving train, causing their entire building to shake, an experience they described as unprecedented.
Following the quake, Delhi police urged citizens to use the emergency 112 helpline for any emergencies, tweeting, “We hope you all are safe, Delhi.”
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