5.4-magnitude earthquake hits Jammu & Kashmir's Doda, tremors felt in Delhi-NCR

Earthquake Tremors Felt in Delhi and Parts of North India

On Tuesday, June 13, 2023, a 5.4 magnitude earthquake hit Delhi and parts of north India, causing panic and damage in some areas. The quake originated in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district, and was felt across Punjab, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh and Delhi-NCR.

According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake occurred at 10:54 am (IST) at a depth of 6 km and 30 km southeast of Kishtwar. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) estimated the depth of the quake at 60 km and the epicentre at 99 km north of Pathankot.

The tremors lasted for a few seconds and shook buildings and windows in many places. People rushed out of their homes, offices and schools as a precautionary measure. Some areas also experienced power cuts due to the quake.

In Doda's Bhaderwah town, a few buildings developed cracks due to the tremors. The false ceiling of a ward of the sub-district hospital collapsed, injuring some patients who were shifted to an emergency ward. A resident of Ghata Bhaderwah said his house was damaged due to the quake.

No major casualties or damage to property have been reported so far from other parts of north India. However, authorities have advised people to stay alert and follow safety guidelines in case of aftershocks.

Earthquakes are common in north India as it lies in a high seismic zone. The region has witnessed several moderate to strong quakes in the past, some of which have caused widespread devastation and loss of lives. Experts have warned that a major earthquake could strike the region anytime and urged the government to take preventive measures to reduce the risk.

This blog article aims to provide an overview of the recent earthquake that shook Delhi and parts of north India. It is based on information from various sources and does not claim to be comprehensive or accurate. Readers are advised to verify the facts before relying on them.

How to Prepare for Earthquakes in North India

The recent earthquake that jolted Delhi and parts of north India has once again highlighted the need for earthquake preparedness and awareness in the region. Earthquakes are unpredictable and can strike anytime, anywhere, without warning. They can cause severe damage to buildings, infrastructure, and human lives. Therefore, it is important to know how to protect yourself and your family before, during and after an earthquake.

Here are some tips on how to prepare for earthquakes in north India:

Before an earthquake

- Identify the safe and unsafe places in your home and workplace. Safe places include under sturdy tables, desks or beds, against interior walls or corners, and away from windows, mirrors, heavy furniture or objects that can fall. Unsafe places include near windows, doors, fireplaces, chimneys, bookcases or cabinets that can topple over.
- Make an emergency plan with your family and friends. Decide how you will contact each other, where you will meet, and what you will do in case of an earthquake. Keep a list of important phone numbers and addresses handy.
- Prepare an emergency kit that contains essential items such as water, food, flashlight, radio, batteries, first aid kit, medicines, cash, documents, clothes and blankets. Store the kit in a safe and accessible place.
- Secure your home and workplace by fixing loose wires, pipes, shelves or appliances that can cause fire or injury. Anchor heavy furniture or objects to the wall or floor. Store flammable or hazardous materials in a safe place.
- Learn how to turn off the gas, water and electricity supply in case of an emergency. Also learn how to use a fire extinguisher and administer first aid.
- Participate in drills and training programs organized by your school, office or community. Learn about the earthquake hazards and risks in your area and how to reduce them.

During an earthquake

- Stay calm and do not panic. If you are indoors, drop to the ground and take cover under a sturdy table or desk. Hold on to it until the shaking stops. If there is no cover nearby, crouch in an inside corner of the building and protect your head and neck with your arms.
- If you are outdoors, move away from buildings, trees, power lines or anything that can fall on you. Find an open space and stay there until the shaking stops.
- If you are in a moving vehicle, stop as soon as it is safe to do so. Avoid bridges, overpasses or tunnels that may collapse. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.
- If you are near the coast, be aware of the possibility of tsunamis. Move to higher ground as soon as possible after the shaking stops. Do not return to the shore until authorities declare it safe.
- Do not use elevators, stairs or fire escapes that may be damaged or crowded. Do not run outside or towards windows that may shatter.
- Do not use phones or internet unless it is absolutely necessary. Keep the lines free for emergency services.

After an earthquake

- Check yourself and others for injuries and provide first aid if needed. Do not move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger.
- Check your surroundings for damage and hazards such as gas leaks, fires or electrical shocks. Turn off the gas, water and electricity supply if you suspect any damage or smell gas.
- Follow the instructions of authorities and emergency services. Listen to the radio or TV for updates and information.
- Stay away from damaged buildings or structures that may collapse. Do not enter them unless authorized by officials.
- Be prepared for aftershocks that may occur after the main quake. They can be smaller or larger than the original quake and can cause further damage or injury.
- Contact your family and friends and let them know you are safe. Use text messages or social media if possible to avoid overloading the phone network.
- Help others who may need assistance such as children, elderly or disabled people. Join a community group or volunteer organization if you can.

By following these tips, you can reduce the impact of earthquakes on your life and property. Remember that earthquakes are natural phenomena that cannot be prevented but can be prepared for. Stay alert and stay safe!

Source: 
(1) Earthquake tremors felt in Delhi-NCR, parts of north India. https://zeenews.india.com/india/earthquake-tremors-felt-in-parts-of-delhi-ncr-2341504.html.
(4) Earthquake Jolts North India | School Damaged In Kishtwar | Tremors Felt In Delhi-NCR | English News. https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/other/earthquake-jolts-north-india-school-damaged-in-kishtwar-tremors-felt-in-delhi-ncr-english-news/ar-AA1cudD5.
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