An earthquake of magnitude 5.1 on the Richter scale struck the Bay of Bengal early Tuesday morning, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The quake occurred at 6:10 AM IST, with the epicenter located at a depth of 91 kilometers.
"EQ of M: 5.1, On: 25/02/2025 06:10:25 IST, Lat: 19.52 N, Long: 88.55 E, Depth: 91 Km, Location: Bay of Bengal," the NCS detailed on its platform, providing immediate information to the public.
Tremors from the quake were felt across various areas, primarily in Kolkata and parts of West Bengal and Odisha. Despite the tremors felt by many, there have been no reports of significant damage or injuries as a result of the earthquake. The epicenter was located sufficiently far from major urban centers, and the depth at which the quake occurred also reduces the likelihood of severe impact.
This earthquake follows recent seismic activity experienced earlier this month. On January 8, residents of Kolkata felt mild tremors resulting from another Earthquake originating from the remote regions of Tibet and Nepal. That tremor, though not causing damage, somewhat prepared the locals for the seismic events occurring again.
Earthquake experts note the importance of depth when it pertains to the potential for destruction. "So far, there have been no details about damage caused by the earthquake," reported ANI, highlighting the calm response from authorities amid the seismic activity.
Interestingly, on February 17, earlier tremors reached the national capital, Delhi, where residents rushed from their homes amid fears after feeling the ground shake. That earthquake, which measured at magnitude 4.0 on the Richter scale, emerged from just 5 km below the surface, creating stronger impacts than the later quake felt near Kolkata.
Officials from NCS indicated the geological factors leading to such events significantly impact how individuals experience them. Despite today’s earthquake near Kolkata being recorded as higher intensity than the earlier one, many residents outside the immediate area felt comparatively less alarmed.
With recent tremors coming one after another, residents across affected regions remain vigilant. Emergency response teams continue monitoring the situation closely to provide timely updates should new seismic events arise.
Overall, as communities assess their preparedness for natural disasters, the emphasis remains on ensuring public safety and readiness for similar occurrences in the future. Seismologists continue to analyze data to fully understand the patterns behind such earthquakes, helping inform future safety measures.
While returning to normal routines, residents of Kolkata and surrounding areas can rest assured, knowing the quake's epicenter, deep beneath the ocean, helped avert significant disaster.