Powerful 6.2 Magnitude Earthquake Rocks Afghanistan, Tremors Felt Across Delhi-NCR

A significant 6.2 magnitude earthquake rattled Afghanistan in the early hours of Tuesday, sending powerful tremors that resonated across a wide swathe of North India, including the bustling Delhi-NCR region. The seismic event, occurring just before 3 AM IST, abruptly awakened millions, prompting widespread concern and immediate social media reports.

According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake struck at 02:50 AM IST.

Its epicenter was located in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan, specifically pinpointed at Fayzabad, Afghanistan, with geographical coordinates of Latitude 36.42 N and Longitude 70.98 E. The depth of the quake was recorded at 168 kilometers, a relatively deep event that often leads to tremors being felt over a larger geographical area.

Residents across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, and other parts of the National Capital Region reported strong shaking.

Many took to social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to share their experiences, confirming the tremors and inquiring about the quake's origin. Accounts described beds shaking, household items rattling, and the distinct rumbling sound often associated with powerful seismic activity.

Beyond Delhi-NCR, reports of tremors also emerged from other Indian states including Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, highlighting the extensive reach of the seismic waves.

While the intensity of the shaking varied by location, the widespread perception underscores the earthquake's considerable strength.

The Hindu Kush region is known as a highly active seismic zone, situated at the collision point of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Earthquakes in this area are not uncommon, often stemming from the immense geological pressures at play.

However, a 6.2 magnitude quake is considered substantial, capable of causing significant damage closer to its epicenter.

As of the immediate aftermath, there were no initial reports of significant damage or casualties from India. Authorities in both Afghanistan and India were assessing the situation.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the planet's dynamic geological forces and the importance of earthquake preparedness in seismically active regions.