Imphal, April 21: A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck parts of Manipur early on April 21, with tremors recorded at 5:59 am, according to the National Centre for Seismology. The epicentre was located in Kamjong district at a depth of 62 km, classifying it as a moderately deep seismic event.
In an official update, the agency confirmed the coordinates and timing of the quake, noting that while the tremors were felt across several areas, there were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage. Residents in multiple locations reported mild shaking, prompting precautionary checks by local authorities.
Officials explained that earthquakes originating at intermediate depths are generally less destructive at the surface but can be experienced over a broader geographical area. Monitoring efforts are ongoing as authorities continue to assess the situation.
The tremor occurred amid a period of heightened seismic activity globally. A day earlier, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.5 struck parts of Japan, triggering tsunami warnings along sections of the Pacific coast. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the quake originated at a depth of 10 km and registered strong intensity levels in affected regions.
An 80 cm tsunami wave was recorded at Kuji port in Iwate Prefecture, while warnings were issued for coastal areas including Hokkaido, Aomori and Iwate, with projections of waves reaching up to 3 metres. The United States Geological Survey initially estimated the magnitude at 7.4 before revising it upward.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged residents to move to higher ground as a precaution. Transport services were disrupted, with the East Japan Railway Company suspending operations on parts of the Tohoku Shinkansen line between Tokyo and Shin-Aomori.
Authorities in Japan reported no abnormalities at nuclear facilities, including Fukushima Daiichi and Daini plants, while warning of the possibility of strong aftershocks in the coming days.
