Telangana 5.3 Magnitude Earthquake
Telangana was shaken by a 5.3 magnitude earthquake at 7:27 AM IST on December 4, 2024, with its epicenter in Mulugu district (18.44°N, 80.24°E) at a depth of 40 kilometers. The Godavari Fault, a dominant tectonic feature, was the origin of the quake, with its normal faulting mechanism and minor strike-slip component intensifying the seismic event. Tremors ranged from intensity IV to V on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, impacting Mulugu, Warangal, and even neighboring states.
Thankfully, no major casualties or structural collapses have been reported, but minor damages to buildings in Mulugu and Warangal have raised concerns among residents. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) has confirmed over 100 felt reports through its website and the BhooKamp app, reflecting widespread alarm across Telangana.
Understanding the Seismic Complexity of Mulugu
The Godavari Fault, a NW-SE trending tectonic zone, is a major source of seismic activity in the region. The recent quake, originating at a depth of 40 kilometers, combined the mechanisms of normal faulting and minor strike-slip movements, making it significant. Shallow quakes like this tend to amplify ground shaking, increasing the chances of structural damages near the epicenter.
Public Response and Precautionary Measures
The Telangana government and disaster management teams have been swift in their response, ensuring immediate surveys of affected regions for damages. Local authorities are focused on assessing the safety of public infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Residents have been advised to follow safety protocols, stay informed, and avoid entering damaged structures.
Historical Earthquakes in the Region
The 2020 Earthquake
Telangana experienced a 4.8 magnitude earthquake in 2020 in the northern region. Though smaller in scale, the tremor caused minor damages to poorly constructed buildings, highlighting the vulnerability of such areas even during moderate seismic events.
The 1993 Deccan Earthquake
A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Deccan Plateau in 1993, with reverberations felt across Telangana. This powerful quake resulted in significant structural damages and casualties, serving as a grim reminder of the destructive potential of seismic activity in fault-prone areas like the Godavari Fault.
Both these incidents emphasize the importance of seismic preparedness, even in regions that are not considered high-risk zones.
Factors That Amplify Earthquake Complexity and Impact
An earthquake’s complexity and potential for damage depend on its magnitude, depth, and proximity to populated areas.
- Magnitude: Quakes above 6.0 are generally considered complex, with magnitudes of 6.5 to 7.5 likely to cause significant structural damage, especially in poorly prepared regions.
- Epicenter: Shallow quakes (depth < 70 km) can intensify ground shaking, making them more destructive near the epicenter.
- Location: When near densely populated or geologically vulnerable areas, even moderate quakes (5.5–6.0) can cause serious harm due to amplifications in certain soil types or infrastructure weaknesses.
Conclusion: A Call for Seismic Preparedness
Telangana’s 5.3 magnitude earthquake serves as a wake-up call to reinforce seismic resilience. The historical context of the 2020 and 1993 quakes further stresses the need for regular monitoring, community awareness, and disaster-ready infrastructure. While the damage this time was minimal, preparedness is key to mitigating future risks in this fault-prone region.
