Bangladesh has witnessed a notable increase in seismic activity during the first 25 days of February. A total of eight earthquakes have been recorded across the country and its neighbouring regions during this period. The most recent tremor occurred on Wednesday night, registering a magnitude of 4.1 on the Richter scale.
Geologists and seismologists have issued a cautionary note, indicating that the recurrence of small to moderate tremors could signal underlying geological instability. They emphasise the importance of heightened awareness among the general population, even though the majority of these tremors have not caused immediate destruction.
Analyses by experts reveal a rising trend of low to moderate magnitude earthquakes in both interior and peripheral areas of Bangladesh. While these tremors are not presently catastrophic, they may serve as precursors to potentially larger seismic events, underlining the need for emergency preparedness and public vigilance.
A summary of the recorded earthquakes in February is provided in the table below:
| Date & Local Time | Epicentre Location | Magnitude (Richter) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 February | Sylhet (East-Southeast) | 3.0 | Minor tremor felt in Dhaka and surrounding areas |
| 3 February (Night) | Myanmar | 5.9 | Strong tremor, felt in Bangladesh |
| 3 February (Night) | Myanmar | 5.2 | Subsequent tremor |
| 4 February, 04:36:46 | Satkhira, Kalaroa | 4.1 | Tremor felt in southwestern Bangladesh |
| 9 February, Early Morning | Sylhet, Goainhat | 3.3 | Localised tremor |
| 10 February, Noon | Sylhet, Goainhat | 4.0 | Localised tremor |
| 19 February, 12:46 | Sunamganj, Chatak | 4.1 | Widely felt across Sylhet region |
| 25 February, 22:51:49 | Sagaing, Myanmar | 5.1 | Minor tremor in Dhaka, no damage reported |
According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, the February 25 tremor originated in the Sagaing region of Myanmar. Data from the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) indicates that the epicentre was located at 23.031°N latitude and 94.744°E longitude, approximately 101 kilometres deep. The tremor occurred roughly 110 kilometres north of Monywa and about 76 kilometres southeast of Mawlaik. Due to its depth, the tremor caused no significant damage, although minor shaking was reported in Dhaka.
This recent activity follows the substantial earthquake of 21 November last year, which registered a magnitude of 5.7, resulting in at least 10 fatalities, over 600 injuries, and extensive structural damage.
Seismologists have cautioned that the rising frequency of small and moderate tremors could indicate the potential for a larger earthquake in the near future. They stress the importance of increasing earthquake awareness, public education, and emergency preparedness across all regions of Bangladesh. Citizens are advised to remain alert and take appropriate safety measures whenever even minor tremors are felt.