Thimphu [Bhutan], September 8 (ANI): A second earthquake struck Bhutan on Monday, with the National Center for Seismology (NCS) recording a magnitude of 2.8. This came just hours after a 4.2 magnitude quake hit the region earlier in the day.
According to the NCS, the second tremor occurred at 12:49:37 IST at a depth of 10 km, making it susceptible to aftershocks.
In a post on X, the NCS stated, “EQ of M: 2.8, On: 08/09/2025 12:49:37 IST, Lat: 27.27 N, Long: 89.11 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Bhutan.”
Earlier, a 4.2 magnitude earthquake was recorded at 11:15:51 IST, also at a depth of 10 km. In a post on X, the NCS said, “EQ of M: 4.2, On: 08/09/2025 11:15:51 IST, Lat: 26.89 N, Long: 91.71 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Bhutan.”
Shallow earthquakes are generally more dangerous than deeper ones, as seismic waves from shallow quakes have a shorter distance to travel to the surface, resulting in stronger ground shaking, greater structural damage, and potentially higher casualties.
Bhutan, like many other regions, is highly vulnerable to natural hazards. Geophysically, it is located in the young Himalayan Mountains and is considered one of the most seismically active zones in the world, according to the Asian Disaster Reduction Centre.
As per the Indian Seismic Code, Bhutan falls within seismic zones IV and V, which are the most active. Past earthquakes have shown that seismic activity poses one of the most imminent risks to the country.
In addition to earthquakes, Bhutan faces other natural hazards. Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) linked to global warming remain a serious concern. Climate change has also intensified seasonal strong winds, which have caused significant damage to rural homes, including during major windstorms in 2011 and 2013. Landslides, flash floods, and forest or structural fires also frequently impact the country, leading to considerable loss of property and lives, the Asian Disaster Reduction Centre noted. (ANI)
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