A 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck Himachal Pradesh late Friday night, triggering tremors across several parts of North India and prompting residents to move out of homes and buildings as a precaution. The earthquake occurred at 10:04:36 p.m. IST and was centered in Chamba district, according to official seismic data.

The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported that the earthquake's epicentre was located at 32.274°N latitude and 76.423°E longitude. The tremor originated at a depth of 5 kilometers below the surface, making it a relatively shallow earthquake.

Tremors Felt In Chamba, Dalhousie And Other Hill Regions

Residents in Chamba, Dalhousie, Bharmaur, Holi, Shahpur and nearby areas reported feeling the ground shake for about two to three seconds. Many people briefly moved to open spaces after experiencing the tremors.

Reports also indicated that the earthquake was felt in parts of neighboring northern states. However, authorities said there were no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage to infrastructure.

Emergency response teams and local administrations remained alert while monitoring the situation.

Why The Earthquake Was Widely Felt

Seismologists say shallow earthquakes can generate stronger ground motion near the surface than deeper seismic events of the same magnitude. The Chamba earthquake occurred at a depth of only 5 kilometers, which contributed to the noticeable shaking experienced across a wider area.

Himachal Pradesh is located in the Himalayan seismic belt, one of the most active earthquake-prone regions in the world. The area experiences frequent tectonic activity due to the ongoing collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate.

Authorities Urge Continued Preparedness

While the earthquake did not result in major reported damage, disaster management officials continue to emphasize the importance of earthquake preparedness. Experts advise residents to remain aware of safety procedures and follow official guidance during future seismic events.