A 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck Delhi-NCR in the early hours of February 17, 2025, shaking the national capital and surrounding areas. While no casualties were reported, the tremors left residents startled, with many describing a loud rumbling noise that accompanied the quake.
Shallow Earthquake Triggers Tremors and Noise
According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake originated at a shallow depth of 5 km. Experts suggest that shallow earthquakes, occurring between 0-70 km below the surface, tend to produce stronger tremors and audible sounds.
Seismologists explain that these booming sounds result from high-frequency vibrations generated by shallow-focus earthquakes. As the seismic waves travel through the ground and reach the air, they create short-period sound waves. The shallower the quake, the more intense the sound.
Possible Causes: Natural Seismic Activity & Groundwater Extraction
Experts point to two possible reasons for the earthquake:
- Delhi’s High Seismic Risk: The city lies in Seismic Zone IV, which is prone to moderate to strong earthquakes due to the ongoing collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This geological process has been occurring for 50 million years, leading to frequent seismic activity.
- Groundwater Extraction: Some researchers believe that excessive groundwater depletion could contribute to earthquakes. Studies suggest that when groundwater levels drop, pressure in underground rock formations changes, which might trigger seismic events.
Residents Recount Terrifying Moments
As the tremors shook Delhi, many residents took to social media to share their experiences.
- “It felt like a train was passing through my house,” one user wrote.
- “I woke up to a deep rumbling sound and shaking walls,” another resident said.
- A commuter at the New Delhi Railway Station described the moment as similar to a bridge collapse.
Security camera footage from various locations captured pipes shaking and buildings swaying. The Delhi Police quickly reassured citizens and urged them to report any emergencies via the 112 helpline.
Is Delhi Prepared for Future Earthquakes?
Experts warn that Delhi is at risk of stronger earthquakes in the future. Since the Dhaula Kuan area, where this quake originated, has experienced multiple low-intensity tremors in the past, it raises concerns about potential larger seismic events.
To minimize damage and ensure public safety, authorities emphasize the importance of earthquake-resistant infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and monitoring groundwater levels.
As the city recovers from this unsettling event, scientists call for further studies to explore the link between groundwater depletion and seismic activity, ensuring better preparedness for future tremors.