An earthquake of magnitude 5.4 on the Richter scale struck the Andaman Island region at 02.45 pm, today. The coordinates of the epicentre are 11.2°N and 91.7°E, 135 km southwest of Port Blair. The depth of the quake was recorded at 10 km from the surface of the Earth. However, no damage to life and property has been reported yet.
Usually, earthquakes measuring 5 to 7 on the Richter scale are considered to be moderate. The energy released during earthquakes of the aforementioned magnitude usually causes very less or no damage at all. Weak structures may have developed cracks.
The Andaman Island region is surrounded by ocean water on all sides. Thus, earthquakes in this area trigger the risk of a Tsunami, however, quakes of moderate intensity pose no threat. Aftershocks are generally not common with earthquakes of a lower intensity, but even if such a phenomenon occurs, the effect will be minimal.
