An earthquake measuring 4.2 on the Richter scale struck Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district early Monday, August 10, prompting tremors across parts of the Yamuna valley, according to officials and seismic data.
The National Center for Seismology (NCS), which monitors earthquake activity across India, recorded the earthquake at 1:21 am IST. Its epicentre was located near the Rajgarhi area of Barkot tehsil, at an estimated depth of 10 kilometres.
Tremors were reported in several locations, including Uttarkashi, Barkot, Purola, Mori, Chinyalisaur and Dunda. Some residents reportedly rushed out of buildings after feeling the shaking.
No Casualties or Major Damage Reported
Initial reports from local authorities said there were no casualties or major damage reported following the earthquake. Officials gathered information from local administrative and police personnel to assess the situation.
The absence of immediate reports of serious damage does not rule out the possibility of minor impacts. Authorities typically rely on local assessments to establish whether buildings, roads or other infrastructure have been affected.
Why Uttarakhand Experiences Earthquakes
Uttarakhand lies in the Himalayan region, which is seismically active because of the ongoing interaction between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Earthquakes of varying magnitudes occur in the wider Himalayan belt, making monitoring and preparedness important for communities in the region.
A magnitude 4.2 earthquake can be felt by people, particularly near its epicentre, although the level of shaking and potential impact depend on factors such as depth, distance, local ground conditions and building design.
Residents should follow official advisories and use established earthquake safety precautions. If shaking begins, the recommended response indoors is to Drop, Cover and Hold On: get low, take cover under sturdy furniture if possible, and hold on until the shaking stops. People should avoid lifts and stay away from windows.
The National Center for Seismology remains the official source for verified earthquake parameters in India. Information about casualties and damage can change as local assessments continue.
