(Juhi Aishwary, Intern Journalist): Tremors were felt in Manipur and parts of Northeast India on Monday night due to an earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale. According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the epicenter was 15 km west of Moirang. Tremors were also felt in other parts of Assam.
A few days ago, earthquake tremors were felt in the northeastern state of Manipur. During that time, according to the National Center for Seismology, an earthquake measuring 43 on the Richter scale occurred in the 43 km east of Ukhrul in Manipur. The earthquake came at a time when people were fast asleep. Despite this, when people felt shaky, many people came out of their homes. No loss of life or property was reported from the earthquake.
Why does earthquake occur?
The earth is mainly made up of four layers, the inner core, outer core, mantle, and crust. The crust and upper mantle are called the lithosphere. This 50-kilometer thick layer is divided into squares, called tectonic plates. These tectonic plates keep moving from their place but when they move too much, an earthquake occurs. These plates can move from their place, both horizontally and vertically. After this, they find their place and in such a situation one plate comes down.
Why do plates collide?
Actually, these plates rotate very slowly and move 4-5 mm from their position every year. If a plate moves near the other plate, it goes away, sometimes they also collide.
What does the middle and intensity of the earthquake mean?
The epicenter of the earthquake is that the location below which the stirring within the plates emits geological energy. The earthquake vibrates more at this place. As the frequency of vibration decreases, its effect also decreases. However, if there’s an earthquake of seven or more on the Richter scale, the jolt intensifies within the vicinity of 40 km. It also depends on the seismic frequency, whether it is upward or in scope. If the occurrence of vibration is up then the lower area is going to be affected.
What does earthquake depth mean?
It means that at what depth the movement has taken place. The greater the depth of an earthquake, the lower is the intensity on the surface.
Which earthquakes are dangerous?
Earthquakes with a magnitude usually up to 5 on the Richter scale are not dangerous, but it depends on the structure of the area. An earthquake of magnitude 5 also can be dangerous if the earthquake is on the banks of the river and there are tall buildings built without seismic techniques.
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