Kathmandu: Nepal experienced an earthquake with a magnitude of 4.0 on Tuesday, as reported by the National Center for Seismology (NCS).
According to the NCS, the earthquake struck at a depth of 25 kilometers, which increases the likelihood of aftershocks. The NCS posted on X with the details: “EQ of M: 4.0, On: 15/04/2025 04:39:02 IST, Lat: 28.76 N, Long: 82.01 E, Depth: 25 Km, Location: Nepal.”
Shallow earthquakes are typically more hazardous than deeper ones due to their higher energy release closer to the Earth’s surface, leading to stronger ground shaking and increased potential for damage to structures and casualties. In contrast, deeper earthquakes tend to lose energy as they travel upwards, resulting in less impact.
Nepal ranks as the 11th most earthquake-prone country in the world, situated along the Himalayas, a region characterized by significant seismic activity. It lies on a convergent boundary where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates intersect. This collision leads to the accumulation of stress and strain in the Earth’s crust, which is eventually released as earthquakes.
Additionally, Nepal is located in a subduction zone where the Indian Plate is sliding beneath the Eurasian Plate, further contributing to the stress on the crust that can trigger earthquakes. This tectonic movement is also responsible for the uplift of the Himalayas, generating immense pressure that can result in seismic activity.
Many buildings in Nepal are constructed from unreinforced masonry, which is vulnerable to collapse during earthquakes. The country’s remote and mountainous terrain can hinder relief efforts following such natural disasters, making it challenging to provide assistance in the aftermath of an earthquake.
