5.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Assam, Felt Across South Asia

A 5.4 magnitude earthquake hit Assam, India, in the early hours of Monday, sending powerful tremors reverberating through various South Asian countries and alarming locals. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) pinpointed the quake's epicenter in the Dhing region of Assam, occurring at a depth of 35 kilometers.

The seismic activity was recorded at 4:47 AM Bangladesh time, disturbing early risers and triggering widespread fear in the affected areas. In Assam, residents felt buildings tremble, windows rattle, and objects tumble, leading many to flee outside for safety. The tremors reached various parts of India, where authorities confirmed brief disruptions but no immediate significant damage reports.

Bangladesh also felt the quake, with notable waves in major cities such as Dhaka and Sylhet. Witnesses described shaking furniture and fleeting unease as the tremors passed. The quake's effects were felt beyond India and Bangladesh, extending to Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and sections of China, where mild to moderate shaking was reported.

Quick to respond, authorities in Assam and nearby regions dispatched emergency teams to assess critical infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and public buildings, checking for structural integrity. Officials urged residents to stay calm, be vigilant, and adhere to earthquake safety protocols, including avoiding unstable structures and being prepared for possible aftershocks.

Despite initial reports indicating no major casualties or injuries, local disaster management officials are actively monitoring the situation. The USGS and local seismic agencies are keeping track of aftershocks and updating the public to ensure safety.

Experts advise communities in earthquake-prone regions to maintain emergency supplies and adhere to preparedness recommendations, as even moderate tremors can occasionally result in localized damage or landslides in at-risk areas.