The Earth is a dynamic and ever-changing planet, and one of the phenomena that remind us of its constant transformation is seismic activity. On September 25, 2023, at precisely 02:31:50 IST, the National Center for Seismology issued a seismic alert, reporting an earthquake with a magnitude of 4.3 in the Andaman Sea. This event serves as a reminder of the geological activity that underlies our planet’s surface.
The earthquake, with its epicenter located at Latitude 7.57 and Longitude 94.81, occurred at a depth of 35 kilometers beneath the seabed. While this particular earthquake was of moderate magnitude, it underscores the geological complexity of the Andaman Sea region, which is situated within a seismically active zone.
“Seismic activity in this region is primarily driven by the tectonic interactions between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. The ongoing convergence and subduction of these plates beneath one another create stress and strain in the Earth’s crust, which can eventually lead to earthquakes. As a result, the Andaman Sea region is prone to both moderate and significant seismic events”.
“It is worth noting that the National Center for Seismology plays a crucial role in monitoring and analyzing seismic activity across India. Through a network of seismometers and advanced technology, the center continuously gathers data to assess earthquake risk, issue timely alerts, and provide valuable information to relevant authorities and the public”.
Earthquakes, regardless of their magnitude, can have a significant impact on coastal regions like the Andaman Sea, where they may lead to tsunamis or other secondary effects. Therefore, it is essential for residents and authorities in seismically active areas to be prepared, have adequate disaster response plans in place, and stay informed about the latest seismic updates.
