Wed Dec 04 03:09:16 UTC 2024: **5.3 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Telangana, Tremors Felt Across Region**
HYDERABAD, INDIA – A 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck Mulugu district in Telangana, India, at 7:27 am local time on Wednesday, causing widespread panic. Tremors were felt as far away as Hyderabad, other parts of Andhra Pradesh, and even in several districts of Maharashtra, including Nagpur, Gadchiroli, and Chandrapur.
The National Center for Seismology (NCS) confirmed the earthquake’s magnitude and location, stating the epicenter was 40 km deep. While initial reports indicate no casualties or significant damage, authorities are currently assessing the situation. Experts advise residents to remain vigilant and avoid unsafe structures.
The earthquake is considered a rare event for Telangana, which falls within seismic Zone II, the lowest intensity zone in India’s seismic zoning system. The intensity of shaking experienced in more distant locations (200-300km) was described as light tremors. Local officials, such as Chandrapur Collector Vinay Gowda, urged residents to remain calm and move to open spaces if further tremors occur.
Social media users reported feeling the tremors across Telangana, including in Hyderabad. While the earthquake caused alarm, it serves as a reminder of the importance of earthquake preparedness, even in regions typically considered low-risk. This event follows recent seismic activity in other parts of India, including Assam and Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the unpredictable nature of such events.
First Piper 