Earthquake Strikes Western Nepal with Magnitude 6.2
Kathmandu, October 3, 2023 – A significant earthquake with a magnitude of 6.2 has rocked the region of Western Nepal, according to a preliminary report released by the National Centre for Seismology. The earthquake, which struck at 14:51:04 IST, has prompted concerns about seismic activity in the area.
The quake’s epicenter was located in the District of Dipayal, Western Nepal, at coordinates 29.39°N and 81.23°E, with a shallow depth of only 5 km. It occurred 302 km east of Haridwar, 206 km southeast of Joshimath, 296 km east-southeast of Rishikesh, and 434 km northwest of Kathmandu. Following the main tremor, two aftershocks of magnitude 3.6 and 3.1 were recorded within a 10 km radius of the epicenter.
The region is known for its high seismic activity, attributed to collisional tectonics, where the Indian plate subducts beneath the Eurasian Plate. Over 60 broadband seismic stations operated by the National Centre for Seismology recorded the event. Initial analysis indicates that the earthquake occurred on the North Almora Thrust (NAT), possibly triggered by structural heterogeneity in the vicinity.
Preliminary data suggests that the earthquake resulted from a thrust fault. Notably, this event occurred 50 km north-northeast of a similar M6.3 earthquake on November 9, 2022. Reports indicate that the earthquake’s intensity, as measured on the MMI scale, reached VI in the epicentral region and a minimum of II at a distance of approximately 5 km and 500 km from the epicenter, respectively.
The seismic history of the region, as documented in the EQ Catalogue of NCS, reveals a pattern of moderate to large earthquakes over the past 13 years. Additionally, three significant events occurred in close proximity to today’s earthquake on November 9, 2022 (M 6.3), January 24, 2023 (M 5.8), and February 22, 2023 (M 4.4). These events were felt with varying intensity in Delhi-NCR and neighboring states.
The Himalayan region, encompassing the Himalayan Frontal Thrust (HFT), Main Boundary Thrust (MBT), Main Central Thrust (MCT), and local faults, contributes to the frequent seismic activity. The neighboring states of India affected by earthquake shaking fall within seismic hazard zones V and IV.
The National Centre for Seismology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, has estimated the expected intensity of this earthquake, widely felt in the Delhi-NCR region and neighboring states. Within one hour of the event, more than 70 reports have been received, with intensities ranging from I to III on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) Scale.
The situation is evolving, and authorities are closely monitoring the aftermath of this earthquake, urging residents to stay prepared and exercise caution. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
