On July 28, 2023, at 08:50:36 Indian Standard Time (IST), a moderate earthquake with a magnitude of 4.0 struck the region of Arunachal Pradesh, India. The National Center for Seismology promptly reported the seismic event, providing essential details about its location and intensity.
Magnitude and Depth of the Earthquake
The earthquake that occurred near Pangin, Arunachal Pradesh, measured a magnitude of 4.0 on the Richter scale. The magnitude scale is used to quantify the energy released during an earthquake and is an essential parameter in assessing its potential impact. Additionally, the seismic event was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers below the Earth’s surface. Understanding the depth helps experts determine the extent of shaking and the likelihood of surface damage.
Location and Distance from Pangin, Arunachal Pradesh
The earthquake’s epicenter was pinpointed at coordinates 30.01 degrees latitude and 94.48 degrees longitude. This places it approximately 221 kilometers to the NNW (North-Northwest) of Pangin, a town in Arunachal Pradesh, India. The precise location data is crucial for emergency response teams and authorities to assess the impact on nearby communities and infrastructure.
Seismic Activity in Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh, situated in India’s northeastern region, is known for its geographical complexity and tectonic activity. The state is located at the meeting point of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it seismically active. Earthquakes are relatively common in this area due to the ongoing tectonic movements and the buildup of stress along fault lines.
Potential Impact and Preparedness
Given the earthquake’s magnitude and depth, there is a possibility of slight to moderate shaking in the affected area. The impact of the earthquake will largely depend on factors such as population density, building structures, and local geological conditions. Local authorities and disaster management teams must be prepared to respond to any potential damages to infrastructure and provide immediate assistance to affected communities.