Magnitude 6.5 Earthquake Strikes Nicobar Islands
A 6.5 magnitude earthquake shook the Nicobar Islands region in the early hours of July 29, 2025. The earthquake occurred at around 12:12 a.m. local time (18:42 GMT on July 28) at a shallow depth of 10 km, about 259 km west-northwest of Sabang, Indonesia, in the Bay of Bengal.
No tsunami warning was issued following the tremor.
Details from Monitoring Agencies
Seismological data from global and Indian agencies—including the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) and the Indian National Centre for Seismology—confirmed the magnitude and depth. It also reported coordinates at approximately 6.82° N latitude and 93.37° E longitude.
Authorities confirmed there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties, and local disaster teams remain on alert.
Natural Risk in Andaman & Nicobar Region
This part of India lies above an active tectonic boundary where the Indo‑Australian plate moves beneath the Burma plate. The region regularly records seismic activity due to this oblique subduction, which includes both vertical and horizontal movement. Earthquakes here are common and occasionally trigger tsunamis—though this one did not.
Even though the quake was relatively strong, experts say that the predominantly horizontal motion of the fault likely contributed to the lack of tsunami risk.
Preparedness and Aftermath
Residents across the Nicobar and nearby Andaman Islands reportedly felt the tremor, prompting swift alerts from disaster response agencies. Officials emphasized that no major damage has been detected so far. Emergency teams remain prepared, and early warning systems continue to function.
The event underscores the importance of earthquake readiness in regions like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, classified as a high-risk seismic zone. Local authorities have urged residents to stay vigilant and stay informed in case of any follow-up tremors.
Governments and scientific organizations continue to monitor seismic activity closely, ready to respond if conditions change.
