A 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck Telangana's Mulugu district on the morning of Wednesday, December 4, sending tremors across several regions, including Hyderabad and parts of Andhra Pradesh. The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported that the earthquake occurred at 7.27 am at a depth of 40 kilometers, with its epicenter located near Mulugu. The tremors triggered panic among residents, although there were no immediate reports of casualties or significant property damage.
The NCS confirmed the earthquake with coordinates 18.44°N and 80.24°E, pinpointing its location in the forests of Eturnagaram. Meanwhile, the US Geological Survey also recorded the event, identifying its origin near the banks of the Godavari River in the same region. Telangana lies in Seismic Zone II, categorized as a low-intensity seismic zone, making earthquakes of this magnitude relatively rare but not unprecedented. The strongest earthquake recorded in this area was a 6.2-magnitude quake on September 30, 1993.
India's seismic zoning ranges from Zone II to Zone V, with Zone V representing the most earthquake-prone regions characterized by the highest potential for intense seismic activity. Telangana's placement in Zone II indicates a minimal risk of significant geological disturbances.
Residents in various towns, including Warangal, Bhadrachalam, Khammam, and Bhupalpally, reported feeling the tremors. Areas in Andhra Pradesh, such as Vijayawada, and locations farther away, including Nagpur and Gadchiroli in Maharashtra, also experienced mild shocks. According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) officials, light tremors can often be felt up to 300 kilometers from the epicenter.
Local administration and disaster management teams remain on alert and are monitoring the situation closely.