KKN Gurugram Desk | A 5.0 magnitude earthquake hit Assam’s Morigaon in the early hours of February 26, 2025. According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the tremors were felt across Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal, Bihar, and even Delhi-NCR. The late-night earthquake caused panic among residents, with many rushing out of their homes in fear.
Strongest Tremors in Assam, People Woke Up in Panic
The impact of the earthquake was most intense in Assam, where people from Guwahati, Nagaon, and Tezpur reported strong tremors. Many residents took to social media to share their experiences, stating that the tremors were powerful enough to wake them from deep sleep.
One user on Twitter mentioned, “The earthquake was so strong that my windows, ceiling fans, and doors started shaking. I woke up immediately.” Some people even evacuated their homes as a precautionary measure. Fortunately, no reports of major damage or casualties have surfaced yet.
Delhi-NCR Also Feels Mild Tremors
In Delhi-NCR, mild tremors were experienced in Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad. Some residents reported feeling slight vibrations, but since the tremors were weak, most people remained unaware of the earthquake while sleeping. No significant damage was reported from these areas.
Earthquake Epicenter and Depth
According to seismological data, the epicenter of the earthquake was in Morigaon, Assam, and it occurred at a depth of 16 kilometers beneath the surface.
The Northeast region of India falls under Seismic Zone 5, making it one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the country. Small to moderate earthquakes are common in this region due to ongoing tectonic activities.
Why Does Northeast India Experience Frequent Earthquakes?
The northeastern states, including Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, frequently experience earthquakes due to their location near the collision zone of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This region falls under high seismic risk, and experts believe that pressure buildup along the plate boundaries often leads to sudden tremors.
Social Media Reactions: Panic and Humor
As soon as the tremors were felt, people started posting their experiences on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Some users expressed fear, while others shared humorous takes on the incident.
One user wrote, “The earthquake was so strong it woke me up from deep sleep! I ran outside in fear.”
Another tweet humorously read, “A strong earthquake hit Assam while my pharmacist was attending nature’s call. He had to run without cleaning himself!”
Social media became flooded with discussions, memes, and reactions, showing how people across different regions experienced the tremors.
Impact on Daily Life and Infrastructure
So far, there have been no reports of major structural damage in the affected areas. However, authorities in Assam, Meghalaya, and West Bengal have urged people to remain alert. Emergency response teams are on standby in case of any aftershocks.
In past incidents, earthquakes in Northeast India have led to landslides, roadblocks, and minor structural collapses. Fortunately, this time, the tremors have not caused significant destruction.
Safety Measures During an Earthquake
Given the frequent occurrence of earthquakes in India, experts advise people to follow these safety precautions:
- Stay Calm – Do not panic and avoid rushing out of a building unless necessary.
- Drop, Cover, and Hold – Take cover under a sturdy table or doorway to protect yourself from falling debris.
- Avoid Using Elevators – If you are inside a high-rise building, use stairs instead of lifts.
- Move to an Open Area – Stay away from buildings, poles, and trees if you are outside.
- Keep Emergency Kits Ready – Have a flashlight, water, food, and essential medicines handy.
- Follow Official Updates – Rely on trusted sources like IMD, NCS, and disaster management authorities for accurate information.
What to Expect Next?
According to seismologists, there is no immediate threat of a stronger earthquake, but aftershocks cannot be ruled out. Residents in high-risk areas should remain vigilant and be prepared for minor tremors in the coming days.
Authorities have assured that the situation is being monitored closely, and there is no need for panic. In case of any significant developments, alerts will be issued to ensure public safety.
The 5.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Assam and North India has once again highlighted the seismic vulnerability of the region. While no major damage has been reported, the event serves as a reminder of the importance of earthquake preparedness.
Residents in earthquake-prone zones like Northeast India, Bihar, and Delhi-NCR must stay informed and take necessary precautions to stay safe. Authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation, and further updates will be shared as needed.