New Delhi, India – A 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck Delhi and its surrounding areas early Monday morning, February 17, 2025, sending tremors across the national capital region (NCR). While no casualties or injuries were reported, many residents experienced an unexpected loud “boom” during the quake, sparking curiosity and concern.
Earthquake Details The earthquake occurred at approximately 5:36 am IST, with its epicenter located near Durgabai Deshmukh College of Special Education in Dhaula Kuan, at a shallow depth of 5 km, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). The tremors were felt across Delhi and its neighboring cities, including Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad.
The Mysterious “Boom” In addition to the tremors, many residents reported hearing a loud, booming sound during the earthquake. This phenomenon was reported in various parts of the city, leaving residents puzzled and prompting speculation about its cause.
Possible Explanations While the exact cause of the “boom” is yet to be definitively determined, several theories have been put forward to explain this phenomenon.
1. Seismic Phenomena According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), rumbling sounds during earthquakes are often associated with shallow-focus earthquakes. When seismic waves reach the air, they can become sound waves. The shallower the epicenter, the more energy can reach the surface, and high-frequency seismic waves passing through the ground can sometimes create audible sounds. Hard ground can also amplify these rumbling sounds.
2. Atmospheric Conditions Some experts suggest that atmospheric conditions may have played a role in the audibility of the sound. Temperature inversions or other atmospheric phenomena can sometimes trap sound waves and cause them to travel greater distances, making them more easily heard.
3. Man-Made Activities While less likely, it is also possible that the “boom” was caused by man-made activities, such as construction or industrial operations. However, given the widespread reports of the sound coinciding with the earthquake, this explanation seems less probable.
Public Reaction The earthquake and the accompanying “boom” generated a significant buzz on social media, with many residents sharing their experiences and expressing concern. Some residents reported feeling intense shaking, while others described the loud sound as alarming.
Official Response Following the earthquake, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to remain calm and vigilant, advising them to follow safety protocols in preparation for potential aftershocks. The Delhi Disaster Management Authority also reiterated the importance of earthquake preparedness, given the city’s high seismic vulnerability.
Delhi’s Seismic Vulnerability Delhi falls under Zone IV of India’s seismic map, which is classified as a high-risk earthquake zone. The city has a history of moderate earthquakes and often experiences tremors from earthquakes originating in the Himalayas, Afghanistan, or China.
Safety Measures In light of the recent earthquake and the city’s seismic vulnerability, it is crucial for residents to be aware of earthquake safety measures. These include:
