In a rare seismic event, a 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck Telangana’s Mulugu district early Wednesday morning, sending tremors across Hyderabad, Warangal, and parts of Andhra Pradesh, including Vijayawada. The quake, which occurred at 7:27 am IST, was confirmed by the National Center for Seismology (NCS). Fortunately, no immediate casualties or major damage were reported, though the incident caused significant panic among residents.
Details of the Earthquake
According to the NCS, the earthquake’s epicenter was located at Lat: 18.44 N, Long: 80.24 E, at a depth of 40 kilometers in Mulugu district. The seismic activity, though unusual for Telangana, was felt widely in Hyderabad, prompting concerns about building safety in urban areas. An X user, Telangana Weatherman, highlighted, “For the first time in 20 years, one of the strongest earthquakes occurred in Telangana with 5.3 magnitude earthquake at Mulugu as the epicenter.”
Residents in Hyderabad, Warangal, and neighboring areas experienced mild to moderate tremors, with many reporting the shaking of furniture and rattling windows. The tremors also reached Vijayawada, further highlighting the wide impact of this earthquake today.
Why Is This Event Significant?
Telangana falls under Seismic Zone II, which is classified as a low-seismic-intensity zone. This makes earthquakes in the region a rare phenomenon. In comparison, other parts of India, like those in Zones IV and V, experience higher seismic activity. This earthquake in Telangana, however, demonstrates that even low-risk zones are not immune to tectonic activity.
India’s seismic zones are categorized as follows:
- Zone II: Low intensity (including Telangana and parts of Andhra Pradesh)
- Zone III: Moderate intensity
- Zone IV: Severe intensity
- Zone V: Very severe intensity
Approximately 59% of India’s landmass is prone to earthquakes, with 11% falling in Zone V. This event underscores the importance of preparedness even in areas considered low-risk.
Residents’ Reactions and Safety Measures
The unexpected earthquake in Hyderabad and surrounding areas created a wave of panic among the populace. People rushed outdoors, avoiding unsafe structures, and local authorities have since urged caution.
Experts have provided the following safety tips:
- Stay calm and move to open spaces if indoors during tremors.
- Avoid standing near windows, tall furniture, or heavy objects that could fall.
- After the quake, inspect buildings for structural damage and avoid re-entering unsafe structures.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and the Telangana State Disaster Response Force (TSDRF) is on alert. Residents in Mulugu district, Warangal, and Hyderabad have been advised to report any structural issues or injuries immediately.
Earthquake Preparedness in Telangana
While Hyderabad earthquake today may not have caused severe damage, it is a wake-up call for the region. Preparedness measures such as seismic assessments of infrastructure, earthquake drills, and community awareness programs could significantly reduce risks in the future.
This earthquake in Telangana has reignited conversations about the necessity of resilient construction practices in both urban and rural areas. For Mulugu district, this is an opportunity to examine its preparedness for natural disasters.
Conclusion
The Telangana earthquake today, with its epicenter in Mulugu, serves as a reminder that seismic activity can occur even in low-risk zones. For residents of Hyderabad, Warangal, and other affected areas, this event underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness. While no casualties were reported, the tremors left a mark on the region, prompting authorities and citizens alike to stay alert for potential aftershocks and future seismic activity.
Stay informed and prepared, as earthquakes can strike unexpectedly. Let this Hyderabad earthquake remind us of the importance of prioritizing safety and resilience in our communities.
