Significant Earthquake Hits Kathmandu, Tremors Felt in Bihar

A 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck Kathmandu early Friday, injuring at least four people, including two in the capital and one inmate attempting to escape in Sindhupalchowk. Tremors were felt in India’s Bihar, though no damage was reported there. The seismic activity emphasizes Nepal’s ongoing vulnerability to earthquakes.

Kathmandu experienced a significant earthquake early Friday morning, resulting in at least four injuries across Kathmandu and the neighboring Sindhupalchowk district. The quake, with a magnitude of 6.1, struck at 2:51 AM, originating near Bhairabkunda, situated 65 kilometers east of the capital. Following the tremor, some residences in Sindhupalchowk sustained visible damage, prompting widespread panic among residents, who fled their homes. Injuries included two individuals in Kathmandu and one inmate at Chautara prison, who was injured while attempting to escape. An elderly man in a Sindhupalchowk village was also hurt while trying to exit his house after the earthquake.

Nepal, located within highly active seismic zones IV and V, remains particularly susceptible to earthquakes. The country has experienced major seismic events, including the devastating 7.8 magnitude quake in April 2015 that resulted in over 9,000 fatalities and extensive destruction of infrastructure.

The earthquake’s tremors were also felt across several districts in Bihar, India, including Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, and others bordering Nepal. Umesh Kumar Singh, a meteorologist from the Bihar government’s Disaster Management Department, stated, “…the quake was recorded around 2:35 AM…. It caused tremors in districts along the Indo-Nepal border and lasted for a few seconds.” Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of property damage or injuries in Bihar, although tremors were noted in additional areas such as Siwan, Patna, and Gopalganj.

The ripple effects of the earthquake have led to increased public interest, as Nepal earthquake has been trending on Google following the event.

In summary, a strong earthquake measuring 6.1 magnitude shook Kathmandu and surrounding areas early Friday, causing injuries and minor property damage in Nepal. The tremors were felt in various districts of Bihar, India, but no significant damage or casualties were reported. Nepal’s vulnerability to seismic activity highlights the importance of preparedness in such tectonically active regions.

Original Source: www.onmanorama.com