Multiple Shallow Earthquakes Rattle Bhutan Amid Himalayan Seismic Activity

Bhutan woke to tremors early Thursday as a shallow earthquake of magnitude 3.1 shook the kingdom, sending ripples of concern across the Himalayan nation. According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the quake occurred at a depth of just 5 kilometers, making it potentially stronger in impact despite its moderate magnitude.

This incident follows a series of quakes that rattled the country on September 8. Two tremors measuring 2.8 and 4.2 on the Richter scale hit within hours, both at shallow depths of around 10 kilometers. The NCS reported the coordinates and timings of each event, showing seismic activity concentrated in the eastern and central regions of Bhutan.

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Shallow earthquakes, like these, pose a particular danger because seismic waves travel a shorter distance to the surface, often amplifying shaking and increasing the risk to structures and lives. Bhutan’s unique geography, located in the young Himalayan mountains, places it squarely within a globally recognized high-risk seismic zone. According to the Indian Seismic Code, the country falls in zones IV and V, which are considered the most seismically active.

Beyond earthquakes, Bhutan faces a spectrum of natural hazards. Climate change has intensified Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), seasonal strong winds, and flash floods, all of which have historically damaged rural homes and infrastructure. For instance, windstorms in 2011 and 2013 caused significant destruction in many remote villages, while landslides and forest fires continue to challenge disaster preparedness.

While no major casualties or damages have been reported from the recent quakes, experts emphasize that the pattern underscores Bhutan’s vulnerability. The recurring seismic activity serves as a reminder of the need for continued awareness, improved building practices, and proactive disaster management strategies across the Himalayan region.