A moderate earthquake measuring 4.6 on the Richter scale jolted the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the early hours of Monday, February 2, 2026, as confirmed by the National Center of Seismology (NCS). The seismic event occurred at approximately 3:30 am Indian Standard Time, sending tremors through the region.
Details of the Seismic Event
According to official data released by the NCS, the earthquake originated at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometers beneath the earth's surface. The precise epicenter was pinpointed at coordinates 9.03° North latitude and 92.78° East longitude, placing it within the Nicobar Islands archipelago.
The National Center of Seismology shared the specific parameters of the earthquake through a post on social media platform X, stating: "EQ of M: 4.6, On: 02/02/2026 03:31:12 IST, Lat: 9.03 N, Long: 92.78 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Nicobar Islands."
Seismic Vulnerability of the Region
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are recognized as one of the most seismically active regions in the world. As per India's seismic zoning map, these islands fall under Seismic Zone - V, which represents the highest risk category for earthquake activity.
This classification underscores the area's historical susceptibility to significant seismic events. The region has experienced numerous major earthquakes throughout its history, with the most devastating occurring on December 26, 2004.
Historical Context: The 2004 Tsunami
The catastrophic 2004 earthquake triggered massive tsunami waves that caused unprecedented destruction across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. According to reports from the Directorate of Disaster Management under the A&N Administration, that event resulted in substantial horizontal and vertical land shifts throughout the islands.
The tsunami waves generated by the 2004 earthquake claimed thousands of lives and destroyed property on an immense scale, leaving a lasting impact on the region's infrastructure and communities.
Understanding Earthquake Depth and Impact
Seismological experts emphasize that shallow earthquakes, like Monday's 4.6-magnitude event, typically pose greater danger than deeper seismic activities. When earthquakes occur at shallower depths, their seismic waves have a shorter distance to travel to reach the surface.
This proximity results in more intense ground shaking, which can lead to increased structural damage to buildings and infrastructure. Shallow earthquakes also carry a higher potential for casualties compared to deeper seismic events of similar magnitude.
Additional Seismic Activity in India
In a separate seismic occurrence on the same day, another 4.6-magnitude earthquake rattled the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. This tremor struck at 5:35 am IST, with officials identifying the Pattan area as its epicenter.
The simultaneous seismic activities in two different regions of India highlight the country's varied geological landscape and the importance of robust earthquake preparedness measures across vulnerable zones.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands continue to be monitored closely by seismological authorities due to their position in a highly active tectonic zone, with ongoing research and preparedness initiatives aimed at mitigating risks from future seismic events.
