Earthquake in Telangana: Rare 5.3-Magnitude Tremor Jolts Mulugu District

By JBDailyNews Desk – December 4, 2024 – In a startling and rare geological event, Telangana’s Mulugu district experienced a 5.3-magnitude earthquake on the morning of December 4, 2024. The tremors, felt as far as Hyderabad and neighboring districts, caused mild panic among residents but resulted in no reported casualties or major structural damage. According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake occurred at 7:27 a.m., with its epicenter near Mulugu at a depth of 40 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.

Understanding the Event: What Happened?

Earthquakes are natural phenomena caused by the sudden release of energy within the Earth’s crust. This energy generates seismic waves that shake the ground. In this instance, the earthquake in Telangana is a rare occurrence as the state lies in a low seismic zone (Zone II). Telangana, along with most of southern India, has historically experienced low-intensity seismic activity due to its location on the stable Peninsular Shield.

The NCS recorded the event with the following parameters:

• Magnitude: 5.3
• Time: 7:27 a.m. IST
• Epicenter Coordinates: 18.44°N latitude and 80.24°E longitude
• Depth: 40 km

What Do the Numbers Mean?

The magnitude of an earthquake refers to the energy released during the event, measured on the Richter scale. A 5.3-magnitude quake is classified as “moderate,” meaning it is strong enough to cause slight damage to well-constructed buildings and significant damage to poorly built structures near the epicenter. The depth of 40 kilometers suggests this earthquake was relatively deep, which generally reduces its potential for surface damage compared to shallower quakes.

Why Telangana? Anomalous Seismic Activity

Telangana is part of the Peninsular Shield, one of the most stable geological regions in India. This shield is characterized by ancient rock formations and tectonic stability. However, seismic activity can still occur in stable regions due to various factors:

1. Reactivation of Ancient Faults: Geological faults, which are fractures in the Earth’s crust, can become reactivated after millions of years due to tectonic stress.
2. Human Activities: Activities such as mining, reservoir-induced seismicity (caused by large dams), and groundwater extraction may sometimes trigger earthquakes.
3. Natural Tectonic Stress Redistribution: Stress accumulation in distant tectonic plates can influence stable regions, occasionally causing tremors.

The exact cause of the Mulugu earthquake will require further investigation by seismologists, who analyze seismic data to determine whether the event was linked to tectonic activity or other causes.

The Science of Earthquake Zones in India

India is divided into four seismic zones based on the likelihood of earthquakes:

• Zone II: Least prone to earthquakes (low intensity)
• Zone III: Moderate seismic risk
• Zone IV: High seismic risk
• Zone V: Very high seismic risk

Telangana falls under Zone II, which is the least earthquake-prone category. However, as today’s earthquake demonstrates, no region is entirely immune to seismic events. Nationwide, nearly 59% of India’s landmass is vulnerable to earthquakes, with areas in Zones IV and V being the most susceptible.

Tremors Felt in Hyderabad and Beyond

Residents in Hyderabad and nearby districts reported feeling tremors as the earthquake rippled through the region. Some described mild shaking of furniture and swaying light fixtures, while others shared their experiences on social media. Posts highlighted surprise and confusion, as such events are uncommon in Telangana.

“It felt like the floor was moving beneath me. I was initially unsure if it was an earthquake,” shared Ravi Kumar, a resident of Hyderabad.

While the tremors did not last long, they were strong enough to remind people of the importance of earthquake awareness and preparedness.

Response and Reactions

The Telangana State Disaster Response and Fire Services Department has been actively monitoring the situation since the earthquake struck. Emergency teams were dispatched to assess potential damage, but initial reports confirmed that the tremors caused no significant harm to life or property.

State authorities issued advisories urging residents to remain calm and follow safety protocols in case of aftershocks. Infrastructure checks, including inspections of buildings, bridges, and water reservoirs, are being conducted to ensure public safety.

The Role of the National Centre for Seismology

The NCS, India’s premier agency for earthquake monitoring and research, plays a critical role in tracking seismic events. Using an extensive network of seismic sensors across the country, the NCS collects data in real-time. This data helps not only in pinpointing the location and magnitude of earthquakes but also in understanding patterns of seismic activity over time.

For today’s event, the NCS promptly disseminated details on social media, providing the public with accurate and timely information. Their analysis indicated that the earthquake’s epicenter was near Mulugu and was felt across much of Telangana.

How to Stay Safe During an Earthquake

While Telangana’s earthquake did not result in any immediate harm, it serves as a wake-up call for individuals and communities to stay prepared. Here are key safety tips to follow during an earthquake:

Before an Earthquake

1. Identify Safe Spots: Under sturdy furniture like tables or desks, or against an interior wall.
2. Secure Heavy Items: Anchor heavy furniture and appliances to walls to prevent them from toppling.
3. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents.

During an Earthquake

1. Stay Calm: Panicking can lead to poor decisions.
2. Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck with your arms, and take shelter under sturdy furniture.
3. Stay Indoors: If you’re inside, do not run outside, as falling debris can cause injuries.

After an Earthquake

1. Inspect for Damage: Check for structural cracks, gas leaks, or other hazards.
2. Stay Alert for Aftershocks: Secondary tremors may follow the main quake.
3. Follow Official Guidance: Listen to updates from authorities and emergency services.

The Global Context: Earthquakes Around the World

Earthquakes are a global phenomenon, with regions along tectonic plate boundaries experiencing the most frequent and intense activity. Countries such as Japan, Indonesia, and Chile, located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, are highly earthquake-prone. In contrast, countries in tectonically stable regions experience fewer quakes, but no area is entirely immune.

For instance, the Bhuj earthquake of 2001 in Gujarat, which caused widespread destruction, occurred in a region previously considered stable. Such events underscore the importance of continuous monitoring, research, and public awareness.

Community Response and Preparedness

Today’s earthquake highlighted the importance of community preparedness. Many residents in Mulugu and surrounding areas were caught off guard, underscoring the need for regular earthquake drills and public education campaigns. By understanding the risks and practicing safety measures, communities can better protect themselves in future seismic events.

Key Takeaways from the Telangana Earthquake

1. Low Risk Doesn’t Mean No Risk: Even regions classified as low seismic zones can experience significant earthquakes.
2. Timely Communication Saves Lives: The prompt updates from the NCS helped dispel rumors and provided clarity to the public.
3. Preparedness is Crucial: Knowing what to do during an earthquake can minimize injuries and save lives.

Conclusion

The 5.3-magnitude earthquake that struck Mulugu, Telangana, serves as a rare but important reminder of the unpredictable power of nature. While the state is categorized as a low seismic zone, today’s event demonstrates the need for vigilance, preparation, and continued scientific research.

As Telangana breathes a collective sigh of relief over the absence of damage or casualties, the focus now shifts to strengthening community preparedness and infrastructure resilience. For residents, the quake underscores the value of awareness and the necessity of having an action plan in place, even for rare events.

By staying informed and prepared, communities can better navigate the uncertainties posed by natural disasters, ensuring safety and resilience in the face of nature’s challenges.