Assam earthquake: 5.1-magnitude tremor rattles Northeast, epicentre near Morigaon

A strong earthquake measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale jolted Assam and several parts of Northeast India early on Monday morning, sending residents rushing out of their homes amid darkness and dense fog.

According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake struck at 4:17 am, with its epicentre located near Morigaon district in Assam. The tremor originated at a depth of 50 kilometres, a factor that helped spread vibrations across a wide area.

Tremors felt across central Assam

Residents in Morigaon and neighbouring districts reported feeling sudden, strong shaking that lasted several seconds. Many people stepped outdoors in panic, fearing aftershocks, especially as visibility was low due to cold weather and thick fog.

Local authorities said that no immediate reports of loss of life or property damage have been received. District administrations are continuing ground-level checks to assess any structural impact.

Seismically active Kopili fault zone

The epicentre falls along the Kopili fault line, one of the most active fault systems in Northeast India. This fault has been responsible for multiple moderate to strong earthquakes in the past, making tremors in this region a recurring concern for disaster management agencies.

Seismologists have long warned that stress accumulation along the Kopili fault poses a persistent earthquake risk for Assam and adjoining states.

Why earthquakes are frequent in the Northeast

Northeast India lies in Seismic Zone V, the highest risk category under India’s seismic zoning map. The region sits at the collision boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making earthquakes a frequent natural phenomenon.

Experts note that while moderate quakes like this one may not always cause damage, they serve as critical reminders of the need for earthquake-resistant infrastructure and public preparedness.

Official monitoring and advisory

The NCS, the Government of India’s nodal agency for earthquake monitoring, confirmed the quake through its official seismic network. Authorities have advised residents to remain alert but calm, noting that aftershocks, if any, are usually weaker.

Disaster response teams remain on standby across affected districts.

What to watch next

• Updates from district authorities on damage assessments

• Any aftershocks recorded by the NCS

• Renewed focus on earthquake preparedness measures in Assam and the wider Northeast