On the morning of December 4, 2024, a powerful earthquake of magnitude 5.3 shook the Mulugu district in Telangana, sending shockwaves throughout the region. Occurring at 7:27 AM IST, the tremors were felt not only in Mulugu but also in Hyderabad, as well as parts of neighboring Andhra Pradesh. While the earthquake cause panic, no immediate reports of casualties or major damage were confirmed. However, authorities are still evaluating the situation as residents brace for aftershocks.
What Happened in Telangana?
At precisely 7:27 AM, the National Center for Seismology confirmed the occurrence of an earthquake with a magnitude of 5.3, centered in Mulugu, located at a depth of 40 kilometers. The quake coordinates were mark at Latitude 18.44° N and Longitude 80.24° E. This rare seismic event caused widespread alarm, particularly in Hyderabad, where many residents reported feeling the tremors. According to the National Center for Seismology, the earthquake was classified as a moderate tremor, though experts have advised residents to stay cautious.
The intensity of the earthquake left many people startled, but the good news is that there have been no immediate reports of fatalities or substantial damage. Local authorities have been on alert, and residents are being ask to remain cautious. It’s important to avoid crowded spaces or unstable structures during such events.
Is Telangana Prone to Earthquakes?
Although earthquakes are not common in Telangana, this recent incident has spark interest in the region’s seismic activity. Telangana is classified as Zone II by the Indian seismic zoning map. Zone II is considere a low-risk area for seismic activity compare to other parts of the country. However, this earthquake in Mulugu is a reminder that even regions with lower seismic risks can experience tremors unexpectedly.
India’s Seismic Zones Explained
India is divide into four seismic zones base on the level of seismicity, ranging from Zone II (low seismicity) to Zone V (high seismicity). Zone V is the most earthquake-prone, and approximately 11% of India’s land area falls within this category. Zones IV and III are moderately active, with around 18% and 30% of the country’s area in these zones, respectively. Telangana’s location in Zone II means it generally experiences fewer earthquakes compared to other regions in India.
Despite this, nearly 59% of India’s landmass is vulnerable to earthquakes of varying intensities, highlighting the unpredictability of seismic events across the country.
A Historic Earthquake in Telangana
For many, the 5.3-magnitude earthquake in Mulugu is a historic event. According to a local user on X (formerly Twitter), this was the strongest earthquake to strike Telangana in the past 20 years. The tremors were felt across the state, including in the bustling city of Hyderabad, making it an extraordinary incident for the residents. While the earthquake did cause some panic, no major casualties or damage have report as of now.
What Should You Do During an Earthquake?
In the wake of the earthquake, experts are urging residents to stay alert. If you experience an earthquake, here are some key safety measures to follow:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: In case you’re indoors, drop to the floor, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
- Stay Indoors: If you’re inside, avoid running outside during the tremors, as falling debris can pose a greater risk.
- Avoid Unsafe Structures: If you’re in an area with fragile buildings, move to a safer place away from windows and doors.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on official updates and listen to authorities for further instructions, especially regarding potential aftershocks.
Tremors Felt in Hyderabad and Other Areas
The earthquake was felt across a wide area, including Hyderabad, Warangal, and parts of Andhra Pradesh. Tremors from the 5.3 magnitude quake were strong enough to cause brief panic in several cities. In Hyderabad, many residents were start the sudden shaking, with some reporting feeling the tremors as far as 50 kilometers away from the epicenter.
A Look Back: Recent Earthquakes Across India
This earthquake in Telangana is part of a broader pattern of seismic activity in India. Just a few days earlier, Assam Karbi Anglong region experienced a smaller earthquake of magnitude 2.9, while Jammu and Kashmir was hit by a 5.8-magnitude tremor originating from Afghanistan. While these tremors have caused minimal damage so far, they serve as a stark reminder of the seismic activity in the region.
What Can We Learn from This Event?
The recent earthquake in Telangana raises important questions about seismic preparedness in India. Despite being a low-risk zone, the event demonstrates the need for continued awareness and safety measures. Earthquakes can strike without warning, and understanding the risks and preparedness steps is crucial in minimizing harm.
Local authorities are working diligently to assess the damage and provide any necessary assistance. As always, being aware of your surroundings and knowing how to respond during an earthquake can make a significant difference.
How to Stay Safe During Earthquakes in the Future
To mitigate the risk of injury and damage during earthquakes, it’s important to follow safety protocols. For long-term preparedness, you can:
- Educate yourself and your family about earthquake safety.
- Ensure that your home and workplace are structurally sound and able to withstand minor to moderate tremors.
- Stay informed about seismic activity in your area through official channels like the National Center for Seismology.
Read More: CTET Exam Admit Card 2024: Important Updates, Dates, and How to Download
Conclusion
While earthquakes are rare in Telangana, the recent 5.3 magnitude quake serves as a powerful reminder that seismic activity can happen anywhere. Residents of Telangana, particularly those in Hyderabad and nearby cities,
are advise to stay alert and take necessary precautions. By staying informed and prepared,
we can minimize the potential impact of future tremors.
