Wed Dec 04 15:11:27 UTC 2024: ## Telangana Rattled by 5.3 Magnitude Earthquake, Second Largest in 55 Years

**Mulugu, Telangana:** Residents of Mulugu, Telangana, were jolted awake at approximately 7:27 AM on Wednesday by a 5.3 magnitude earthquake, the second strongest to hit the region in the last 55 years. The quake, originating 40 kilometers below the surface near the Godavari River, was felt across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, with tremors also reported in Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra.

The National Center for Seismology confirmed the event, highlighting its unusual nature for the region. Retired scientist Purnachandra Rao of the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) explained that earthquakes exceeding magnitude 5 are rare in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The last major quake, a 5.7 magnitude event, occurred in Bhadrachalam in 1969.

While CSIR-NGRI Director Dr. Prakash Kumar downplayed the severity for Hyderabad, stating that it’s not a seismically active zone and that the tremors were likely mild, the incident raised concerns. India’s seismic zoning map categorizes the country into four zones, with Zone V being the most active and Zone II the least. Telangana falls under Zone II, indicating a lower risk. However, the recent earthquake underscores the need for preparedness even in lower-risk zones.

Following the quake, Rao warned of potential aftershocks in the coming days, attributing the event to the Godavari fault zone. Residents in Warangal reported feeling minor tremors, with swinging ceiling fans and items falling from cupboards.

D. Srinagesh urged disaster management authorities in both states to take necessary steps to ensure structures comply with design standards appropriate for their respective seismic zones. The event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of seismic activity and the importance of robust building codes and preparedness across all zones.

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