Assam Quake Sends Shockwaves Through Northeast—5.7 Magnitude Confirmed

In a startling reminder of the region’s seismic vulnerability, a magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck Assam on Sunday afternoon, September 14, 2025, sending tremors across multiple districts and prompting residents to evacuate buildings in haste. The quake, which occurred around 4:58 PM IST, was felt in Guwahati, Silchar, Dibrugarh, and surrounding areas, with reports of mild structural damage and widespread panic.

 

According to preliminary data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and independent seismic trackers, the epicenter was located in the northeastern part of Assam, at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers, classifying it as a shallow earthquake—typically more intense at the surface.

 

Panic and Precaution

Residents in Guwahati and nearby towns reported strong tremors lasting between 15 to 20 seconds, causing furniture to shake and ceiling fans to sway. Many rushed outdoors, abandoning homes, offices, and shopping centers. Videos circulating on social media showed people gathered in open spaces, visibly shaken but safe.

 

While no casualties have been reported so far, minor cracks in walls and ceilings were observed in older buildings, especially in Silchar and Jorhat. Authorities have urged citizens to remain alert and avoid re-entering damaged structures until safety inspections are completed.

 

The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has activated emergency protocols and is coordinating with local administrations to assess damage and ensure public safety. “We are monitoring the situation closely. Teams have been dispatched to survey affected areas and provide assistance where needed,” said an ASDMA spokesperson.

 

Seismic History and Risk

Assam lies in Zone V, the highest seismic risk zone in India, making it prone to frequent earthquakes. The region has experienced several moderate to strong quakes in recent years, including a 5.3 magnitude tremor near Silchar just weeks ago. Experts warn that the area’s complex tectonic setting—where the Indian Plate collides with the Eurasian Plate—makes it susceptible to sudden seismic activity.

 

According to EarthquakeList.org, Assam has recorded over 700 earthquakes of magnitude 4 or higher within a 300-kilometer radius in the past decade. The latest quake adds to a growing list of tremors that have rattled the region in recent months, including a 4.4 magnitude quake on September 4 and a 5.3 magnitude event on August 22.

 

Seismologists emphasize the need for earthquake-resilient infrastructure, especially in urban centers like Guwahati, which are rapidly expanding but often lack adequate structural safeguards.

 

Public Awareness and Preparedness

In the wake of the quake, disaster management officials are urging residents to follow basic earthquake safety protocols:

Schools and colleges across Assam are expected to conduct safety workshops in the coming week, reinforcing preparedness among students and staff.

 

Monitoring and Updates

The IMD and National Center for Seismology (NCS) continue to monitor aftershock activity. So far, no significant aftershocks have been recorded, but experts caution that smaller tremors may follow in the next 24–48 hours.

 

Local news outlets and emergency services are providing real-time updates, and citizens are encouraged to rely on verified sources for information. The government has also activated helplines for reporting damage and requesting assistance.

 

Sources: EarthquakeList.org, Times of India, Guwahati Earthquake Tracker