Key Takeaways
- Magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck Delhi-NCR at 5:36 AM IST on February 17, 2025.
- Epicenter: New Delhi, Delhi (Latitude: 28.59° N, Longitude: 77.16° E).
- Depth: 5 km, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS).
- Tremors were felt in Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and other surrounding areas.
- No immediate reports of damage or casualties, but residents rushed out of their homes in panic.
- Social media flooded with reactions, videos, and security camera footage capturing the tremors.
Earthquake Jolts Delhi-NCR: What Happened?
A moderate-intensity earthquake measuring 4.0 on the Richter Scale struck Delhi and surrounding areas early Monday morning, sending strong tremors across the region. The quake was reported at 5:36 AM IST by the National Center for Seismology (NCS).
The earthquake lasted for only a few seconds but was strong enough to shake buildings and wake up residents. Many people, startled by the sudden tremors, evacuated their homes in fear.
The tremors were widely felt in Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad, with reports emerging from parts of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and even Bihar.
Panic Among Residents as Tremors Strike Early Morning
The earthquake struck while most people were still asleep, leading to widespread panic. Residents reported:
- Furniture and ceiling fans shaking for a few seconds.
- Doors and windows rattling, intensifying fears of a bigger quake.
- Many rushed out of their homes, concerned about aftershocks.
A resident from Noida said:
“I woke up to the sound of my bed shaking. It was terrifying. We rushed outside immediately, fearing it could get worse.”
Security camera footage shared on social media captured the moment of the tremors, showing lights flickering and objects moving.
Authorities on Alert: No Reports of Damage or Casualties
Authorities, including the Delhi Police and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have been monitoring the situation.
- The Delhi Fire Department confirmed that no major incidents had been reported.
- Hospitals and emergency services were placed on alert as a precautionary measure.
- The Delhi Metro services continued operating normally but were temporarily slowed down for safety checks.
The National Center for Seismology (NCS) urged residents to remain calm, stating:
“The earthquake was of moderate intensity with no immediate reports of structural damage. However, we advise people to follow earthquake safety protocols.”
Social Media Reactions: People Share Their Experiences
As soon as the tremors were felt, social media platforms were flooded with reactions.
- Hashtags like #Earthquake, #DelhiTremors, and #DelhiEarthquake began trending on X (formerly Twitter).
- Users posted videos from home security cameras, showing fans swaying and objects moving.
- Some compared it to previous quakes, while others shared memes to lighten the mood.
A user wrote:
“Woke up to my entire room shaking! Thought it was a dream, but it wasn’t. #DelhiEarthquake”
Another posted:
“The earthquake was short but strong. It’s a scary reminder that Delhi is in a seismic zone. We need better preparedness!”
Even political leaders took to social media.
- BJP leader Tajinder Bagga posted, “Earthquake?”
- Congress leader Alka Lamba wrote, “Did everyone feel that? Strong tremors!”
Why Does Delhi-NCR Experience Frequent Earthquakes?
Delhi-NCR lies in Seismic Zone IV, making it highly prone to earthquakes. The region sits close to several major fault lines, including:
- Himalayan Seismic Belt – A highly active seismic zone.
- Delhi-Moradabad Fault Line – Runs near Delhi, increasing vulnerability.
- Mahendragarh-Dehradun Fault Line – Extends into parts of Haryana and UP.
While today’s earthquake was moderate in intensity, experts warn that larger earthquakes can occur in the future.
What Should You Do During an Earthquake?
If you feel an earthquake, follow these safety measures:
If Indoors:
✔️ Drop, Cover, and Hold On – Get under a sturdy table and hold on.
✔️ Stay away from windows and heavy objects that could fall.
✔️ Do not run outside immediately, as falling debris is a major risk.
If Outdoors:
✔️ Move to an open space, away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
✔️ Avoid standing near walls that could collapse.
If in a Vehicle:
✔️ Stop safely away from bridges and flyovers.
✔️ Remain inside until the shaking stops.
Future Outlook: Is Delhi Prepared for a Major Earthquake?
While today’s earthquake was moderate, Delhi’s vulnerability to seismic activity raises concerns about preparedness.
What Experts Say:
- Delhi’s old infrastructure is at high risk of collapse in a major earthquake.
- Earthquake-resistant construction codes need strict enforcement.
- Public awareness campaigns should educate people on earthquake safety.
The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has assured that steps are being taken to strengthen emergency response systems.
Final Thoughts
This morning’s earthquake was a reminder of Delhi-NCR’s seismic vulnerability. While no major damage was reported, residents must stay alert and prepared for future seismic activity.
As Delhi continues to grow, authorities and citizens alike must focus on earthquake preparedness, structural safety, and emergency response to minimize risks.
Did you feel the tremors? Share your experiences in the comments!
