Experts and scientists warn of heavy earthquake in western Nepal

source: https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/11/e6f6467b0983-earthquake-alert.html

In a disconcerting series of events, Nepal's western region has been relentlessly shaken by moderate to strong earthquakes for the past month, sounding alarm bells among experts and scientists. On October 3, 2023, a significant earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale, with its epicenter in Bajhang district, claimed the lives of six people. A mere month later, on November 3, 2023, Jajarkot district was jolted by a more devastating earthquake, registering a magnitude of 6.4 and resulting in the tragic loss of over 150 lives.

Warning of an Impending Catastrophe

These unnerving seismic activities have raised concerns regarding the likelihood of a major earthquake striking the western parts of Nepal. Experts and scientists from various countries have voiced their warnings and predictions. Scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Kanpur, India, have sounded the alarm, suggesting the possibility of a major earthquake with a magnitude of around 8.5, affecting both the western regions of Nepal and Uttarakhand in India.

Energy Build-Up and Geological Dynamics

One key factor contributing to this growing concern is the apparent energy build-up in the western part of Nepal. While the eastern and central regions of the country have experienced significant seismic activity, releasing pent-up energy, the western region remains overdue for a major release. Geological experts argue that this situation indicates a heightened likelihood of a powerful earthquake in the near future.

Plate Tectonics at Play

The Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates continue to interact, with their ongoing collision causing the land to shift upward by approximately 20mm. This geological phenomenon has contributed to the rising heights of the Himalayan mountains. Given the continuous tectonic activity, experts and scientists have issued a stark warning, highlighting the imminent threat of a major earthquake looming over the Himalayan regions of Nepal and India.

As Nepal grapples with the ongoing seismic unrest in its western region, both residents and authorities remain on high alert, preparing for the potential devastation that a major earthquake could bring. The world watches closely as experts monitor the situation, hoping to provide timely warnings and crucial information to minimize the impact of this impending geological event.