Earthquake Shakes Telugu States: Panic in AP and Telangana
A seismic hazard measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale struck the Telugu states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana early Wednesday morning, triggering widespread panic as tremors were felt across multiple districts. The seismological impact was confirmed by the National Center for Seismology, with the epicenter located in Mulugu, Telangana, at a depth of 40 km. Tremors were felt between 7:00 AM and 7:28 AM, sending residents rushing outdoors in fear of ground shaking and building collapses.
Strong Tremors Across Key Areas
In Telangana, the cataclysmic event was particularly strong in Charla, Dummugudem, Khammam, and Warangal districts. Residents in these areas described the experience as terrifying, with household items falling and dizziness reported. Hyderabad residents also felt the tremors, especially in outskirts such as Kothagudem and Hanumakonda. The seismic zones in these regions experienced intense shaking, sparking immediate fear of further seismic hazards.
Impact in Andhra Pradesh
Vijayawada and nearby villages, including Jaggayapet, experienced significant shaking, lasting a few seconds. Although brief, the tremors left many worried, as such geophysical events are rare in this region. The intensity of the tremors raised awareness of potential tectonic shifts in the area.
Panic in Other Districts
In Mahabubabad’s Gangaram area, the shaking caused chairs to topple, while in Karimnagar and Vidyanagar, residents lost their balance. Bhadradri Kothagudem and Peddapalli districts also reported strong tremors, prompting people to flee their homes in fear of further earthquake aftershocks.
Seismic Concerns in the Region
These Telugu states are part of seismic zones prone to occasional earthquakes due to tectonic activity and coal mining. While minor tremors are common, the intensity of this earthquake has raised concerns about future seismic risks and the region’s preparedness for tectonic shifts.
Local authorities, including the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), are assessing the impact and advising residents to remain vigilant.
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