Earthquake in Kolkata | Latest Updates, Epicenter, and Why Tremors Are Increasing

On the evening of February 3, 2026, a significant earthquake in Kolkata sent tremors through the city, sparking panic among residents, particularly those in high-rise buildings. The tremors, which were felt at approximately 9:04 PM IST, lasted for several seconds and were reported from across Salt Lake, New Town, and Park Street.

While no immediate damage or loss of life has been reported within the city, this recent earthquake in Kolkata has raised urgent questions about the city’s structural readiness and its geographical vulnerability to seismic events in neighboring countries.

Recent Tremors: Epicenter and Magnitude

The primary cause of the earthquake in Kolkata felt on Tuesday was a powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar.

According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) and the USGS, the details of the event are as follows:

• Time: February 3, 2026, 9:04 PM IST.
• Magnitude: 6.0 on the Richter Scale.
• Epicenter: Yenangyaung, Myanmar (approx. 95 km west of Yenangyaung).
• Depth: 27 km (Shallow quakes like this often produce stronger surface tremors).
• Secondary Event: Earlier that same day, a 4.1 magnitude earthquake was recorded in Bangladesh at a depth of 150 km.

Why Does an Earthquake in Kolkata Feel So Intense?

Despite the epicenter being hundreds of kilometers away in Myanmar or Bangladesh, an earthquake in Kolkata often feels surprisingly strong. This is due to two critical factors:

1. The Amplification of Alluvial Soil

Kolkata is situated on the Bengal Basin, which consists of thick layers of soft alluvial soil. Unlike rocky terrain, this soft soil acts like a sponge for seismic energy, amplifying the waves as they pass through. This can make a moderate tremor feel like a much more severe earthquake in Kolkata.

2. The Eocene Hinge Zone

The city lies near the Eocene Hinge Zone, a 500-km-long geological feature where the tectonic crust dips significantly. This makes the region a “conduit” for seismic energy originating from the Indo-Burman subduction zone.

Safety Guide: What to Do During an Earthquake in Kolkata?

For a city with a high density of old buildings and modern high-rises, preparation is key.

If You Are in a High-Rise:

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Do not try to run for the stairs. Take cover under a sturdy desk.
• Avoid Glass: Stay away from large windows or glass partitions common in New Town offices.
• Do Not Use Elevators: Power fluctuations during an earthquake in Kolkata can trap you inside.

If You Are Outdoors:

• Move to an open area like a park or a wide street.
• Stay clear of utility poles, overhanging wires, and old balconies.

Historical Context of Earthquakes in West Bengal

Kolkata sits in Seismic Zone III, classified as a Moderate Damage Risk zone. However, its proximity to the Eocene Hinge Zone means it is a conduit for energy from larger quakes in the North and East. Historically, the city has felt the impact of massive quakes in 1897 and 1934, proving that while quakes aren’t frequent, their potential impact is significant.

To stay updated on how such events impact India’s internal security and disaster management policies, explore our latest reports in the National News Section.