Bangladesh Earthquake Swarm Triggers Major Seismic Risk Alert

A series of earthquakes has shaken Bangladesh, causing panic and casualties. A 5.7 magnitude quake struck on Friday, followed by three subsequent tremors within 32 hours. The seismic swarm has killed at least 10 people and damaged buildings in Dhaka and central districts. Experts are now warning these could be foreshocks to a much larger event.

The region sits on a major tectonic plate collision zone. This geological reality places the densely populated country at high seismic risk. According to the Associated Press, the initial quake caused significant structural damage.

Details of the Recent Earthquake Swarm

The first and strongest quake measured 5.7 on the Richter Scale. It hit on Friday morning with its epicenter in Narsingdi district. The tremor lasted for over 25 seconds, causing widespread damage.

At least 10 people were killed and hundreds more were injured. Multiple buildings in the capital, Dhaka, and other areas were damaged. The shaking felt intense due to the region’s weak soil composition.

Three subsequent jolts followed the initial event. Two tremors struck near-simultaneously on Saturday evening. One was centered in Dhaka’s crowded Badda area, the other again in Narsingdi.

The Bangladesh Meteorology Department (BMD) confirmed the events. A BMD spokesman, Tariful Newaz Kabir, provided the magnitude details. The subsequent quakes registered at 3.7 and 4.3, classified as minor and light.

Experts Warn of Impending Major Seismic Event

Seismologists have long warned of a major earthquake in Bangladesh. The country is crossed by several active fault lines. This latest swarm has intensified these concerns, with experts labeling the events as potential foreshocks.

Dhaka is ranked among the world’s 20 most vulnerable cities to earthquakes. Its extreme population density and aging building stock amplify the risk. Many structures in the old part of the capital are dilapidated and would not withstand a strong quake.

The region has a history of powerful seismic activity. Five major earthquakes measuring above 7.0 occurred between 1869 and 1930. This historical precedent underscores the persistent threat facing the nation.

The recent Bangladesh earthquake swarm serves as a stark reminder of the region’s tectonic volatility. The situation demands urgent review of disaster preparedness protocols across the vulnerable nation.

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How many earthquakes recently hit Bangladesh?

Four earthquakes struck Bangladesh within a 32-hour period. The sequence began with a 5.7 magnitude quake, followed by three subsequent tremors.

What was the damage from the main quake?

The 5.7 magnitude earthquake killed at least 10 people. It also injured hundreds and caused significant damage to buildings in central districts and Dhaka.

Why is Bangladesh at high risk for earthquakes?

Bangladesh sits on the collision zone of major tectonic plates. The country is also crossed by several active fault lines, creating high seismic risk.

Is Dhaka prepared for a major earthquake?

Dhaka is considered one of the world’s most vulnerable cities to earthquakes. Its dense population and many old, dilapidated buildings heighten the risk significantly.

What does the Meteorology Department say about the tremors?

The Bangladesh Meteorology Department classified the subsequent quakes as aftershocks. They noted the initial shaking lasted longer due to weak soil composition in the region.