A 4.0 magnitude earthquake shook Delhi early this morning, with tremors extending to nearby regions. The National Centre for Seismology reported the quake's epicenter at a shallow depth of approximately 5 kilometers near Dhaula Kuan's Jheel Park. While no casualties or injuries have been reported, many residents recounted hearing a distinct, brief rumbling noise during the event.
Understanding the Unusual Sound
The audible rumble accompanying the tremors is characteristic of shallow-focus earthquakes. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), high-frequency vibrations from such quakes can produce booming sounds. As the ground vibrates, it generates short-period seismic waves that propagate into the air as sound waves. The shallower the quake's origin, the more pronounced the energy and resultant sound. In some instances, these seismic events can emit audible noises even without noticeable ground shaking.
Delhi's Seismic Vulnerability
Positioned in Seismic Zone IV, Delhi is susceptible to significant seismic activity. The Delhi Disaster Management Authority notes that this zone typically experiences earthquakes ranging from magnitudes 5 to 6, with occasional events reaching magnitudes 7 to 8. This seismicity primarily stems from the ongoing collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. The resulting stress accumulation and release along plate boundaries lead to frequent earthquakes.
Shallow earthquakes, originating just 5 to 10 kilometers beneath the surface, often cause more pronounced effects than deeper ones. The Dhaula Kuan region, today's epicenter, has a history of minor seismic events every few years, including a 3.3 magnitude quake in 2015.
Firsthand Accounts from Residents
The early morning tremors startled many in the capital. CCTV footage from a Delhi residence captured intense movement of tank pipes and wires during the quake. At the New Delhi Railway Station, a passenger described the experience: "I was in the waiting lounge. Everyone rushed out. It felt as if a bridge had collapsed." Another resident shared, "The tremors were so strong. It felt like a train was passing nearby. Everything was shaking. I've never experienced anything like this before."
In response, Delhi Police advised citizens to remain vigilant and, in case of emergencies, to contact the 112 helpline. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also urged residents to stay calm and adhere to safety protocols, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for potential aftershocks.
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