A powerful earthquake struck Nepal early Tuesday morning, sending waves of panic across the nation and prompting thousands of residents to flee their homes in fear. The tremor, which jolted various parts of the country including the densely populated Kathmandu Valley, was recorded at 6:50 AM local time.
The National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre (NEMRC) in Kathmandu reported that the earthquake measured 7 on the Richter scale. However, discrepancies in magnitude were noted by international monitoring agencies. Reuters cited the China Earthquake Networks Centre, which recorded the quake at a magnitude of 6.9, with the epicentre located at a depth of 10 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.
The earthquake’s shallow depth heightened its impact, causing significant tremors felt across a wide area, including neighbouring regions. The epicentre was pinpointed in the western part of Nepal, a region known for its seismic activity.
As the earthquake struck, panic ensued among the populace. In Kathmandu Valley, residents described a sudden, violent shaking that lasted for approximately 60 seconds. The tremors prompted people to rush out of their homes and into the streets, some still in their sleepwear. Witnesses reported scenes of chaos as individuals sought safety in open spaces, fearing aftershocks.
In a press statement, the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre confirmed ongoing assessments to determine the extent of the quake’s impact. “We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available,” said a spokesperson for the Centre.
Despite the severity of the tremors, initial reports from local authorities and media indicated no significant damage or casualties. However, officials cautioned that assessments were still underway, particularly in remote areas where communication lines are often disrupted.
“We have not received any immediate reports of damage or injuries,” said an official from the Ministry of Home Affairs. “Our teams are in the field, conducting inspections and gathering information from affected areas.”
