Delhi Earthquake Today LIVE: Why Tremors Were So Intense

Delhi Earthquake Today LIVE: On 17th February, 2025, a 4.0 intensity earthquake hit New Delhi in the early morning, at 5:36 AM, sending a wave of panic throughout the capital city and the surrounding areas. Although the quake was not devastating and no reports of damage or injury were reported immediately, the fact that the earthquake occurred close to the epicenter gave the quake a greater impact than the Richter scale measurement indicates.

Why Was the Earthquake So Intense in Delhi?

Even though the earthquake was merely 4.0 on the Richter scale, people from all over Delhi and surrounding regions felt strong jolts which shocked many people, including people in places like Sita Ram Bazar and Noida. The force of the shudders lies in the epicenter of the earthquake, which was very close to Delhi, in Dhaula Kuan, a densely populated region of the capital.

Generally, earthquakes with intensities of approximately 4.0 may not have that level of severe shaking, but since the epicenter is close to a populated area such as Delhi, the effects may be stronger. The shake was particularly evident in residential houses, and so people fled in order to avoid harm, some even saying they felt the sound as a huge boom vibrating beneath them. The relative closeness of the epicenter, combined with Delhi’s existing infrastructure, resulted in a higher perceived intensity of tremors.

EQ of M: 4.0, On: 17/02/2025 08:02:08 IST, Lat: 25.93 N, Long: 84.42 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Siwan, Bihar.
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— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) February 17, 2025

Delhi’s Vulnerability to Earthquakes

Delhi’s position makes it vulnerable to frequent seismic activity. Located around 250 kilometers from the seismically active Himalayan collision zone, Delhi experiences tremors from both nearby and far-reaching earthquakes. This region is classified as Seismic Zone IV, which is the second highest seismic zone in India, indicating a relatively high risk of earthquakes.

Over the last three years, Delhi has experienced multiple tremors. Some of them include a number of minor quakes in 2020: a 3.5 magnitude earthquake on April 12, a 3.4-magnitude earthquake on May 10, and more importantly, a 4.4-magnitude earthquake close to Rohtak (around 50 kilometers north-west of Delhi) on May 29, 2020. These small quakes, though not major, have contributed to increasing public awareness of seismic risk in the capital.

Aftershocks and What to Expect Next

Experts have indicated that aftershocks are possible but would be less powerful than the original tremor. Environmentalist Dr. Suman Gupta explained that aftershocks can happen within hours of the original quake, although they are unlikely after minor quakes such as today’s. Authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant and exercise caution if there is any additional seismic activity.

Psychological Impact on Residents and Social Media Response

The earthquake caused a significant psychological impact on residents, especially those who had never encountered such intense shaking in their lives. Anil Kumar, a resident of Sita Ram Bazar, recounted panicking and hurrying his family out when the earthquake struck. His recollection of worrying about his heart condition contributed to the anxiety most people experienced during the quake.

Though the earthquake caused fear, social media soon went into frenzy with jokes and memes. Several residents jokingly referred to the earthquake as a natural wake-up call since individuals were awoken by the shakes. A viral post lightheartedly commented, “You know it’s a big one when it wakes you out of bed and out of your sleep.”

Political and Official Responses

Prime Minister Narendra Modi soon took to social media and told the citizens to stay calm and follow safety measures. He also advised caution against possible aftershocks. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also followed suit, wishing for the well-being of all those hit by the tremors.

As a response to public outcry, the Delhi Police released emergency contact details, urging citizens to call the helpline ‘112’ in case of any emergency.

Looking Forward: Earthquake Preparedness in Delhi

With the growing frequency of earthquakes in the area, experts have emphasized enhancing earthquake preparedness in Delhi. Authorities are constantly keeping watch and reporting updates on any additional aftershocks. The ambiguity around the intensity and frequency of future earthquakes has made it essential for citizens to prepare for unanticipated seismic activity, particularly in densely populated districts.

While the 4.0-magnitude quake in Delhi on February 17, 2025, did not cause extensive damage or casualties, it underscored the ever-present seismic threats to the capital. The fact that the epicenter was close to the city itself resulted in the shakes being more severe than anticipated. Delhi being in a seismic zone, it’s essential that its residents remain on their toes and ready for impending quakes.