Today's Earthquake: Delhi-NCR Experiences Tremors Following a 6.1 Magnitude Quake in Afghanistan
Current Earthquake Update: Delhi-NCR Experiences Tremors.
Today, Delhi experienced fresh tremors following a 6.1 magnitude earthquake in Afghanistan. The quake, which occurred on Thursday, originated 241 kilometers northeast of Kabul. The earthquake details, including its magnitude (6.1), date (11-01-2024), time (14:50:24 IST), and depth (220 km), were shared by the National Center for Seismology via Twitter.
Today, powerful tremors shook Lahore, Islamabad, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cities in Pakistan due to a 6.4 magnitude earthquake centered 44 km SSW of Jurm, Afghanistan, at 2:50 pm on January 11, as reported by the US Geological Survey.
Thankfully, there are no reports of casualties or property damage so far. Additionally, a 6.0 magnitude earthquake occurred at 2:20 pm (local time) in the Hindu Kush region at a depth of 213 km, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department. Cities such as Sargodha, Khushab, Mandi Bahauddin, Bhakkar, Nowshera, and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir also experienced tremors.
Given the earthquake's high intensity, there is a significant risk of aftershocks in the region, similar to the situation in Japan following a powerful earthquake on January 1, as noted by Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz of the Pakistan Meteorological Department.
Pakistan, situated in a seismic zone, frequently faces earthquakes and tremors of varying magnitudes. The country endured its deadliest earthquake in October 2005, claiming over 74,000 lives and causing extensive destruction.
Earthquakes of magnitude 6.1 can pose various risks and cause significant damages. While the exact impact depends on several factors, including the depth and location of the earthquake, as well as the population density and building infrastructure in the affected areas, here are some potential risks and damages associated with earthquakes of this magnitude:
1. Structural Damage: Buildings, bridges, and infrastructure can sustain severe damage during an earthquake of this magnitude. The shaking can cause walls, floors, and roofs to collapse, endangering the lives of those inside.
2. Injuries and Casualties: People may sustain injuries due to falling debris, collapsing structures, or being knocked off balance during the shaking. The severity of injuries can vary, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries or even fatalities.
3. Landslides: Earthquakes can trigger landslides, especially in hilly or mountainous regions. The shaking loosens the soil and rocks, leading to landslides that can block roads, bury buildings, and pose a significant threat to people living in the affected areas.
4. Disruption of Services: Earthquakes can disrupt essential services such as electricity, water supply, communication networks, and transportation systems. Damage to infrastructure can lead to power outages, disrupted water supply, and difficulties in reaching affected areas with emergency aid.
5. Aftershocks: Following the initial earthquake, there is a possibility of aftershocks, which are smaller tremors that occur in the same region. Aftershocks can further damage already weakened structures, hamper rescue efforts, and contribute to ongoing fear and anxiety among the affected population.
6. Secondary Hazards: Earthquakes can trigger secondary hazards such as fires, tsunamis (in coastal areas), and gas leaks. These secondary hazards can cause additional damage, injuries, and loss of life.
7. Psychological Impact: Earthquakes can have a profound psychological impact on the affected population. The fear and trauma experienced during and after an earthquake can lead to anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among individuals, requiring psychological support and counseling.
It is important to note that the extent of risks and damages can vary depending on the preparedness, infrastructure resilience, and emergency response capabilities of the affected regions. Governments, communities, and individuals play a vital role in implementing measures to mitigate the impact of earthquakes, such as enforcing building codes, conducting public awareness campaigns, and developing effective emergency response plans.
Comments