On February 20, 2025, a magnitude 5.2 earthquake in Andaman Sea near Malaysia sent tremors across the region. Recorded at 8:49 AM IST, the quake’s epicenter was located 75 km beneath the seafloor, with coordinates 5.57°N latitude and 95.07°E longitude. Fortunately, no casualties or structural damage were reported, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) .
Understanding the Seismic Event
The earthquake in Andaman Sea near Malaysia occurred at a moderate depth, reducing its surface impact. Shallow earthquakes (typically under 70 km) often cause stronger shaking, but this event’s 75 km depth mitigated risks. Despite its intensity, the NCS confirmed no tsunami alerts were issued due to the magnitude falling below the 6.5 threshold required for destructive waves .
Why Is the Andaman Region Prone to Earthquakes?
The Andaman Sea lies on the boundary of the Indo-Australian and Eurasian tectonic plates, a hotspot for seismic activity. Over the past decade, 482 earthquakes of magnitude 4+ have struck within 300 km of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, averaging one every 8 days . The region’s history includes a devastating 8.0 magnitude quake in 1941, highlighting its volatile geology .
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Recent Tremors: A Pattern of Activity?
This earthquake in Andaman Sea near Malaysia follows a series of smaller tremors. On February 19, 2025, Maharashtra’s Raigad district experienced minor jolts, while Delhi-NCR and Bihar felt quakes earlier in the week . Experts attribute this uptick to stress adjustments along fault lines, though no direct connection has been confirmed.
Preparedness: Lessons from the Andaman Quake
Authorities emphasize earthquake readiness, especially in coastal zones. Key steps include:
- Retrofitting older buildings to withstand tremors.
- Conducting regular safety drills in schools and offices.
- Monitoring official alerts from agencies like the NCS.
Public awareness campaigns have surged post-event, urging residents to stay vigilant.
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Conclusion: Staying Safe in Seismic Zones
The earthquake in Andaman Sea near Malaysia is a reminder of nature’s unpredictability. While this event caused minimal harm, it underscores the need for proactive disaster management. By combining technology, infrastructure resilience, and community education, regions can mitigate risks and safeguard lives.
