Tuesday, January 7, 2025 – A powerful earthquake originating in Tibet shook large parts of South Asia early this morning, causing widespread panic and claiming at least 32 lives. The 7.1-magnitude quake struck at 6:35 am, with aftershocks recorded in quick succession with its epicenter located in Tibet at a depth of 10 kilometers. Within minutes, aftershocks of varying intensities followed, including a 4.7-magnitude quake at 7:02 am and a 4.9-magnitude quake at 7:07 am. A final tremor of magnitude 5 was recorded six minutes later. The seismic activity disrupted life across Nepal, North Bengal, northern Bihar, Sikkim, Assam, Bhutan, and parts of China.Nepal bore the brunt of the quake’s impact, with strong tremors felt in Kathmandu, causing many to panic and leave their houses. The shaking extended to northern India, where people in Patna, Siliguri, and Sikkim reported intense jolts. Bhutan and China, including the Tibetan city of Shigatse, also experienced the earthquake’s effects. Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, has reported a history of seismic activity, with 29 tremors of magnitude 3 or higher recorded within 200 kilometers over the past five years. However, none matched the severity of Tuesday’s quake.
The aftermath of the earthquake reveals significant damage in the affected regions, with rescue operations underway to locate survivors. In Nepal, the quake triggered widespread panic, with many recalling the devastating 6.4-magnitude earthquake of November 2023 that killed over 100 people. Northern Bihar and parts of North Bengal experienced noticeable tremors, leaving communities on edge.
Experts have long warned that the Himalayan region is prone to seismic activity due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This geological phenomenon continues to heighten the risk of earthquakes in the area. Tuesday’s event serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the region, emphasizing the urgent need for preparedness and disaster mitigation strategies.
Authorities across the affected regions have mobilized emergency teams to assess damage and provide assistance. Rescuers are working tirelessly in Nepal and Tibet, where the loss of life and destruction of infrastructure are most severe. In India, disaster management teams are on high alert, closely monitoring the situation and offering aid to affected communities.
For millions in the region, Tuesday morning began with fear and uncertainty as the earthquake disrupted daily life. Residents in Kathmandu described scenes of chaos as people fled to open spaces to avoid falling debris. Similar accounts emerged from Siliguri, Patna, and other affected areas, highlighting the widespread panic caused by the tremors. As the region grapples with the aftermath of the disaster, the focus remains on rescue operations, rebuilding, and learning lessons to better prepare for the future.
