A strong earthquake measuring magnitude 6.1 struck central Myanmar on the evening of 3 February 2026, sending tremors across eastern India and neighbouring regions, including Kolkata and its surrounding districts. The seismic event, recorded at a shallow depth, was powerful enough for residents in high-rise buildings and office spaces to feel noticeable shaking, prompting many to step outside as a precaution.
According to seismic monitoring data and reports from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the quake occurred late Tuesday evening, with its epicentre located in Myanmar — a region prone to seismic activity owing to its location along active fault lines. The tremors were also reported across parts of Bangladesh, demonstrating the wide reach of the seismic waves generated by the event.
In Kolkata, the shaking lasted for several seconds at approximately 9:05 pm local time, leaving many residents startled as furniture and ceiling fans swayed. Witnesses shared their experiences of feeling the earth shift beneath them, though there were no immediate reports of structural damage, injuries, or casualties in India or Myanmar.
Authorities continue to assess data and gather details about the quake’s precise location and aftershock potential. Seismologists note that shallow earthquakes — those occurring closer to the Earth’s surface — can produce stronger surface shaking, even at moderate magnitudes, which explains the broad area over which the tremors were felt. Residents in tremor-affected zones have been advised to stay vigilant and follow safety precautions as more information becomes available news as reported.
