Chamba experienced two back-to-back earthquakes, the first measuring 3.3 at 3:27 a.m. followed by a stronger 4.0 magnitude quake at 4:39 a.m.
Early-Morning Tremors: Earthquake Details
The first earthquake, registering a magnitude of 3.3, struck at 3:27 a.m. IST. The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) recorded its epicentre at 32.87 °N, 76.09 °E, occurring at a depth of 20 km beneath the surface of Chamba, Himachal Pradesh.
About an hour later, a stronger tremor of magnitude 4.0 shook the district at 4:39 a.m. IST, with a shallower epicentre at 32.71 °N, 76.11 °E and just 10 km deep.
No Immediate Damage, But Anxiety Rises
So far, officials have confirmed no casualties or property damage resulting from these quakes. Yet, residents’ nerves remain frayed, particularly given the ongoing monsoon havoc across Himachal Pradesh—marked by landslides, floods, and cloudbursts.
Seismic Susceptibility: Chamba in Focus
Chamba lies within Seismic Zone V, the highest risk bracket in India, making it prone to frequent and sometimes stronger tremors. In recent weeks, Himachal Pradesh has already witnessed multiple tremors, such as a 3.5 quake near Chamba-Kangra border on July 11 and a 4.1 quake in Churah on July 26, followed by a 3.9 tremor near Dharamshala on August 18.
Monsoon Mayhem Adds to the Crisis
Compounding the seismic concerns, Himachal continues to grapple with monsoon disasters. In Kullu’s Lagghati area, a cloudburst has reportedly damaged critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, shops, and homes.
The Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) reports that since June 20, monsoon-related calamities have claimed 276 lives, destroyed over 1,100 homes, and ravaged thousands of cattle sheds and rural structures. Livestock losses exceed 27,550, adding to the state’s mounting distress.
Read Also, Himachal Rain Fury: 170 Dead as Devastation Grows
Conclusion
Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, stands vulnerable not only to seasonal disasters but also to persistent seismic risks. With two tremors—magnitude 3.3 and 4.0—striking within an hour, the region faces a compounded threat amid monsoon-related destruction. While no loss has been reported yet, authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and prepared.
Disclaimer
This news report is based on information from the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) and other reliable sources at the time of writing. Details such as magnitude, timing, and epicentre are subject to official updates. Readers are advised to follow alerts from disaster management authorities and local administration for real-time information.
