In the early hours of February 25, 2025, an earthquake of magnitude 5.1 struck the Bay of Bengal, sending tremors across parts of West Bengal and Odisha. The earthquake was recorded at 6:10 AM IST, with its epicenter located in the Bay of Bengal, at a depth of approximately 91 kilometers beneath the ocean floor. While there were no immediate reports of casualties or major damages, the tremors left many residents startled, especially in Kolkata and Puri.
Details of the Earthquake
The National Center for Seismology (NCS) confirmed the details of the earthquake, reporting the epicenter’s coordinates at latitude 19.52°N and longitude 88.55°E. This offshore location, combined with the earthquake’s moderate depth, helped in reducing the intensity of the tremors on land. However, the quake was strong enough to be felt across the coastal regions of West Bengal and Odisha.
Tremors in Kolkata and Neighboring Areas
Residents of Kolkata woke up to mild but noticeable tremors that lasted for a few seconds. Many took to social media to share their experiences, expressing their initial panic and confusion. Some residents in high-rise buildings reported feeling light shaking, and a few even evacuated their homes as a precautionary measure.
The tremors were also felt in Howrah, North and South 24 Parganas, and East Midnapore districts of West Bengal. However, authorities reassured citizens that there was no immediate threat of aftershocks or a tsunami warning.
Impact in Odisha: Puri and Surrounding Areas
Apart from West Bengal, tremors were also reported in coastal Odisha, particularly in Puri and nearby towns. The shaking was not strong enough to cause significant damage, but it startled locals and led to temporary panic. Odisha’s disaster management teams have been monitoring the situation to assess if any buildings or structures have sustained minor damages.
Why Did This Earthquake Happen?
The Bay of Bengal region is known for its seismic activity, as it is influenced by the movement of the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. The subduction of the Indian Plate beneath the Burmese Plate often leads to moderate to strong earthquakes in this region.
Although this earthquake did not cause major destruction, it serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity. Experts suggest that regular monitoring and preparedness measures are essential to mitigate potential risks in the future.
No Reports of Casualties or Major Damage
As of now, no casualties or significant structural damages have been reported. Authorities in both West Bengal and Odisha are closely monitoring the situation, and disaster response teams are on standby. Power supply, transportation, and essential services remain unaffected.
Government and Disaster Management Response
In response to the earthquake, the West Bengal Disaster Management Authority and Odisha State Disaster Management Authority have issued advisory statements, urging citizens to remain calm and stay informed through official channels.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has also been alerted, though no emergency interventions have been necessary so far. Officials have advised citizens to stay prepared for possible aftershocks, though none have been reported yet.
Social Media Reactions and Public Response
As soon as the tremors were felt, social media platforms were flooded with posts from concerned citizens sharing their experiences. Many residents described the quake as a “brief but unsettling experience”, while others speculated about its cause and potential aftershocks.
Some users in Kolkata reported seeing ceiling fans and household objects moving slightly, while others in Odisha rushed outside in fear.
Safety Tips for Earthquakes
While this earthquake did not cause significant damage, it is crucial to be prepared for seismic events. Here are some essential earthquake safety tips:
During an earthquake:
- If indoors, drop, cover, and hold on under a sturdy table.
- Stay away from windows, glass doors, and heavy objects that could fall.
- If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings and power lines.
After an earthquake:
- Check for gas leaks or structural damages in your home.
- Avoid using elevators and be cautious of falling debris.
- Stay updated through official news sources and follow instructions from local authorities.
Conclusion
The magnitude 5.1 earthquake that struck the Bay of Bengal on February 25, 2025, was a mild to moderate seismic event that caused tremors in West Bengal and Odisha. Thankfully, no major damage or casualties have been reported so far.
This incident highlights the importance of earthquake preparedness, as the Bay of Bengal region remains seismically active. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and citizens are encouraged to stay vigilant and follow safety measures in case of future tremors.
For the latest updates, stay tuned to official sources like the National Center for Seismology (NCS), Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), and local government agencies.
