Twin Earthquakes Jolt Bay of Bengal and Nicobar Islands

A powerful seismic event unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday as two significant earthquakes struck the Bay of Bengal region, impacting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and sending tremors across parts of coastal West Bengal. Authorities have confirmed no immediate damage or casualties, but the events have prompted heightened alertness and precautionary measures.

Key developments from the National Center for Seismology and GFZ:

Seismic activity overview

A magnitude 6.3 earthquake was recorded at 12:11 am IST in the Bay of Bengal, near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The epicentre was pinpointed at latitude 6.82°N and longitude 93.37°E, with a shallow depth of 10 km

A separate magnitude 6.18 quake was reported by the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) in the Nicobar Islands region, also at a depth of 10 km

Impact on West Bengal

Tremors from the Bay of Bengal quake were felt in parts of coastal West Bengal

No reports of structural damage or injuries have emerged so far

The India Meteorological Department had already forecasted heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in the region due to a depression over coastal West Bengal, which may compound local disruptions

Tsunami risk and safety measures

Despite the magnitude and shallow depth, no tsunami alert has been issued by the Tsunami Warning System or US Geological Survey

Authorities remain on high alert, especially in coastal zones, monitoring for any delayed seismic or oceanic responses

Preparedness initiatives

In light of recent seismic activity, large-scale disaster preparedness drills are underway across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh from July 29 to August 1

These drills are coordinated by the National Disaster Management Authority, the Indian Army, and respective state governments to strengthen emergency response mechanisms

Historical context

The region lies in a highly active seismic zone. The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, which devastated Aceh and surrounding areas, remains a stark reminder of the potential risks

Sources: National Center for Seismology (India) German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) United States Geological Survey (USGS) Times of India, Firstpost, Republic World, The Hindu, India Today