Sikkim, Darjeeling Kalimpong and Nepal Shaken by Multiple Earthquakes, Latest at 4.3 on Richter Scale
On February 26, 2026, Sikkim experienced multiple earthquakes in a single day. According to the Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), fourteen earthquakes were recorded between 5:43 am on February 26 and 8:53 am on February 27, 2026. These tremors occurred within the coordinates of 27.321 to 27.430 latitude and 88.050 to 88.690 longitude, at depths ranging from 2 to 10 kilometres, with magnitudes between 2.5 and 4.8.
As per the EMSC, the strongest jolt measured 4.8 in magnitude at a shallow depth of 2 km and was located just 5 km west-northwest of Gyalshing, Sikkim.
Reports also confirmed that houses were damaged in a 4.3 magnitude quake yesterday. A moderate earthquake measuring 4.3 magnitude struck 24 km northeast of Gangtok, Sikkim, in the early hours of Friday at 4:10 am (IST). The tremor occurred at an intermediate depth of 84 km and was reportedly felt across several parts of the region.
Preliminary data indicated that the epicentre was located near Mangan district. The National Centre for Seismology later issued a revised report listing the quake at a magnitude of 3.7.
Mild tremors were experienced in Gangtok, Mangan, Rangpo, Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Kurseong, Thimphu, and Siliguri. There were no immediate reports of casualties.
Meanwhile, PTI reported that a 4.7 magnitude earthquake struck the Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal on Friday. There were no immediate reports of loss of life or damage. The earthquake occurred at 3:18 am, with its epicentre at Topke Gola near the Sankhuwasabha–Taplejung border area, approximately 400 km east of Kathmandu, according to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre (NEMRC). The tremor was felt in neighbouring districts including Bhojpur, Panchthar, and Tehrathum.
An earthquake struck the border area of Sankhuwasabha and Taplejung districts early this morning. The 4.7-magnitude earthquake occurred at 3:18 a.m. According to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre in Lainchaur, the epicentre was around Topke Gola in Sankhuwasabha. The tremor was felt in various locations across Sankhuwasabha and Taplejung districts. People who were in deep sleep in the early hours of the morning rushed out of their homes in panic after feeling the shaking. According to preliminary information, security officials in the districts have reported that there have been no reports of human casualties or property damage so far.
Earlier on February 26 at 11:50 AM, a 4.6 magnitude earthquake struck Sikkim, with the epicentre located in Gyalshing district, officials confirmed. Tremors were felt across several parts of the state, though no immediate reports of damage or casualties were received.
Earlier this month, on February 6 at 01:09:27 IST, a 4.5 magnitude earthquake hit the same region. The epicentre was recorded at 27.31°N and 88.18°E at a depth of 10 km. It was located about 6 km west of Pelling, 31 km north-northwest of Darjeeling, 42 km west of Gangtok, and 68 km north-northwest of Siliguri.
The February 6 earthquake was followed by at least 12 aftershocks within four hours and 30 minutes, with magnitudes ranging between 2.2 and 4.0, mostly eastward of the main shock.
Seismic analysis suggests that the event occurred near the Tista Fault/Lineament and south of the 6.9 magnitude earthquake of September 18, 2011. The region is recognised as highly seismically active due to collisional tectonics, where the Indian plate is gradually moving beneath the Eurasian plate, forming the Himalayas.
Reports indicated a maximum intensity of VI on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale in the epicentral area, while lower intensities of II were recorded up to 250 km away. Authorities continue to monitor the evolving situation.
Sikkim lies within one of the most seismically active zones in the Himalayan belt. The continuous collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates has made the region particularly vulnerable to earthquakes. Recent seismic zonation maps classify it among the highest earthquake-risk areas in India.
Although moderate tremors can cause noticeable shaking, the recent series of quakes has fortunately not resulted in significant casualties or large-scale destruction.
The repeated tremors have understandably caused concern among residents, especially those living near the epicentres. Many reported feeling strong vibrations and rushed out of their homes and workplaces, particularly during the midday quake.
Authorities and disaster management officials are closely monitoring seismic developments and have advised citizens to remain calm, follow official updates, and stay prepared for emergencies.
While the recent earthquakes in Sikkim and neighbouring regions have not caused major loss of life or widespread destruction, they serve as a reminder of the persistent seismic vulnerability of the Himalayan region. Continuous monitoring, preparedness, and public awareness remain essential as the ground beneath this beautiful yet fragile landscape continues to shift.arketing efforts.
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