Delhi Shaken by 4.0 Magnitude Earthquake – Is Climate a Factor?

On February 17, 2025, at 5:36 AM IST, a 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck New Delhi, jolting residents awake and prompting discussions about the factors contributing to such seismic events.

While earthquakes are primarily driven by tectonic forces, recent studies suggest that certain weather conditions might influence their occurrence. This article delves into the recent Delhi earthquake and examines the potential interplay between weather phenomena and seismic activity.

The February 17 Delhi Earthquake

The earthquake’s epicenter was pinpointed near Jheel Park in the Dhaula Kuan area of New Delhi, with a shallow depth of approximately 5 kilometers. This shallow depth often results in more noticeable ground shaking, which was evident as strong tremors were felt across the National Capital Region (NCR).

Residents reported being startled by the early morning quake, with some noting, “At 5:35 am, the entire building was shaking… My whole family rushed outside.” Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of casualties or significant structural damage.

Delhi’s Seismic Vulnerability

Delhi’s geographical positioning makes it susceptible to seismic disturbances. Situated on the Indo-Gangetic Plain, the city is influenced by tectonic activities from the Himalayan region to the north and the Aravalli range to the south. The constant interaction of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates contributes to the region’s seismicity. Historical records indicate that Delhi has experienced earthquakes of varying magnitudes, underscoring the importance of preparedness and resilient infrastructure.

Weather and Earthquakes: Is There a Link?

Traditionally, earthquakes have been attributed solely to tectonic processes—movements and interactions of the Earth’s plates. However, emerging research suggests that certain weather conditions might play a role in triggering seismic events, especially in regions already under tectonic stress.

Heavy Rainfall and Seismic Activity

Studies have indicated that episodes of heavy rainfall can influence seismic activity. For instance, research focusing on Japan’s Noto Peninsula revealed that intense precipitation led to changes in underground stress levels, potentially triggering a swarm of earthquakes. The infiltration of large volumes of water into the Earth’s crust can alter pore pressure, potentially facilitating fault slippage.

Atmospheric Temperature Variations

While the Earth’s crust insulates subterranean faults from surface temperature fluctuations, some studies have explored potential correlations between atmospheric conditions and seismic events. For example, research has examined transient variations in atmospheric parameters prior to significant earthquakes, suggesting a possible link between atmospheric anomalies and seismic activity.

Climate Change and Seismic Hazards

The broader implications of climate change on seismic activity are also being explored. Melting glaciers and rising sea levels can redistribute massive amounts of weight on the Earth’s crust, potentially influencing tectonic stresses. Additionally, increased rainfall in certain regions might affect seismicity. While these factors don’t cause earthquakes directly, they can potentially trigger events in areas where tectonic stress is already elevated.

Conclusion

The February 17 earthquake in Delhi serves as a reminder of the region’s seismic susceptibility. While tectonic movements remain the primary cause of earthquakes, it’s essential to consider the potential influence of weather-related factors.

Ongoing research continues to shed light on the complex interactions between atmospheric conditions and seismic activity. Understanding these relationships can enhance predictive models and inform preparedness strategies, ensuring that communities are better equipped to handle such natural events.