Earthquake Today: 4.1 Magnitude Quake Hits Bay of Bengal, Mild Tremors Felt in India
4 min read
On October 29, 2024, a moderate earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale struck the Bay of Bengal, near India’s eastern coast. According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake occurred at approximately 12:24 AM IST at a depth of 10 kilometers. The quake’s coordinates, recorded at 10.83°N latitude and 91.54°E longitude, positioned it offshore, but the tremors were mildly felt in some coastal areas of eastern India and possibly Sri Lanka.
Although earthquakes of this magnitude are relatively common, this event underscores the active tectonic activity in the region, which is situated near the boundary between the Indo-Australian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This tectonic intersection, particularly near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is prone to frequent seismic events. Recent months have seen several earthquakes, though mostly minor, indicating heightened seismic activity in this part of the Indian Ocean.
Seismic Activity in the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Region
The Bay of Bengal region has long been known for its seismic sensitivity, as it lies near the Andaman Sea and the tectonic boundaries that contribute to frequent shifts in the Earth’s crust. Tectonic interactions, primarily involving the Indo-Australian and Eurasian plates, are known for causing earthquakes of varying magnitudes that often affect not only the oceanic regions but also nearby landmasses, including India and its neighboring countries. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in this seismically active zone, often experience both minor and moderate quakes that sometimes reach the Indian mainland and the coast of Sri Lanka.
This recent earthquake, while considered minor, serves as a reminder of the region’s ongoing tectonic activity. The Bay of Bengal’s eastern coast and surrounding areas are especially prone to such events due to the subduction zone formed by the colliding plates. Although no significant damage or injuries have been reported from this latest quake, minor tremors were reported in coastal towns and areas of India’s eastern coast.
Importance of Depth and Location in Earthquake Impact
When assessing the potential impact of an earthquake, both the magnitude and the depth of the event play crucial roles. The October 29 earthquake was relatively shallow at a depth of 10 kilometers, which can often result in more intense shaking at the surface despite the moderate magnitude. Shallow earthquakes are typically felt over a broader area than deeper quakes, even at lower magnitudes, as the seismic waves reach the surface with less attenuation. However, the distance from major landmasses minimized the direct impact on populated areas this time.
In the event of larger earthquakes, proximity to fault lines and depth are significant factors for disaster response teams to evaluate. Coastal regions along India’s eastern seaboard, which lie near the Andaman Basin’s tectonic boundary, are routinely monitored for seismic events. Regular monitoring helps in early warnings, particularly for tsunamis, which have the potential to impact vast stretches of coastal regions depending on the magnitude and type of seismic activity in oceanic areas Volcano Discovery.
Recent Earthquakes and Patterns in the Region
Over the past few months, the Indian Ocean region has experienced a series of low-to-moderate earthquakes. The Bay of Bengal and Andaman region recorded tremors of similar magnitudes, which were mostly deep-seated and thus posed little risk to mainland infrastructure. Notably, a 4.2-magnitude earthquake was reported on October 10 near the Andaman Sea, while other recent seismic events include tremors in Assam and northeastern India. The tectonic patterns suggest ongoing activity along fault lines that pass through the Indian subcontinent’s northeastern frontier, the Bay of Bengal, and nearby regions.
Preparedness and Public Safety in Earthquake-Prone Areas
Given the Bay of Bengal’s seismic profile, authorities emphasize the importance of public awareness and preparedness, especially for those residing in areas along India’s eastern coast. Although the earthquake was minor, it is a reminder of the potential risks associated with this tectonically active zone. Residents are advised to stay informed about safety measures, including the basic protocols of “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in the event of a tremor.
For areas near the coast, awareness regarding potential tsunamis is also critical. Although tsunamis are relatively rare for earthquakes of this magnitude, the possibility increases with larger seismic events. India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and related agencies regularly update the public on safety protocols to reduce potential risks associated with sudden tremors.
Resources and Monitoring
For real-time updates, citizens can refer to the National Center for Seismology’s interactive seismic activity map, which tracks earthquakes across India and the surrounding regions. Websites like VolcanoDiscovery also offer information on recent global seismic events, enabling individuals to stay informed about potential tremors or aftershocks.
By staying vigilant and informed, communities in earthquake-prone areas can better prepare and respond, reducing the potential impact of sudden tectonic events.
