April 2, 2025
HOWRAH, WEST BENGAL – Residents of Howrah and surrounding areas experienced mild tremors in the early hours of the day, following a series of recent seismic activities in the region. While no major damage or casualties have been reported, the tremors were strong enough to cause brief panic among locals.
Recent Earthquake Activity
According to seismological data, no major earthquake was recorded in Howrah today. However, the region has witnessed seismic activity over the past few weeks:
- February 25, 2025: A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck the Bay of Bengal at approximately 6:10 AM. The tremors were felt in Kolkata, Howrah, and parts of Odisha. The quake had a depth of 91 kilometers, minimizing surface-level impact but still causing noticeable shaking in high-rise buildings.
- March 28, 2025: A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 in magnitude hit near Bangkok, Thailand, with aftershocks being felt as far as Myanmar and parts of eastern India, including Kolkata and Howrah. The tremors lasted for a few seconds but did not result in significant damage in the region.
- November 24, 2023: A magnitude 4.9 earthquake occurred approximately 55 kilometers north-northwest of Kolkata. The tremors were mild but served as a reminder of the region’s susceptibility to seismic activity.
Residents React with Concern
Following today’s mild tremors, several residents reported feeling a sudden jolt, particularly those in multi-story buildings. Some stepped outside their homes in fear, while others checked social media and news sources for confirmation. Emergency services received a few inquiries, but there were no reports of structural damage or injuries.
A local resident, Priya Sharma, described the experience: “I was working when I suddenly felt my chair move slightly. At first, I thought it was my imagination, but then I noticed the ceiling fan shaking. It lasted for just a few seconds, but it was definitely unsettling.”
Preparedness and Safety Measures
Authorities have advised citizens to remain vigilant and prepared for potential future tremors. Safety guidelines include:
- Identifying safe spots such as doorframes, sturdy furniture, or open areas in case of strong shaking.
- Keeping an emergency kit with essential supplies, including water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first-aid kits.
- Avoiding elevators during an earthquake and using stairs instead.
- Staying away from glass windows, mirrors, and loose furniture that may topple over.
Seismologists continue to monitor the region for any signs of further activity. Experts suggest that while Kolkata and Howrah are not in the highest seismic risk zones, the proximity to active fault lines means that mild to moderate tremors can occur from time to time.
