Four earthquakes shake Hingoli; strongest 4.6-magnitude tremor felt across Marathwada

Pune: A series of four earthquakes struck Maharashtra’s Hingoli district in the early hours of Thursday, triggering panic as tremors were felt across parts of Marathwada

Pune: A series of four earthquakes struck Maharashtra’s Hingoli district in the early hours of Thursday, triggering panic as tremors were felt across parts of Marathwada. According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the strongest quake measured 4.6 magnitude and was felt across Marathwada.

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The first and most powerful tremor struck at 1.37 am, with its epicentre in Hingoli at a depth of 10 km. It was followed by three more earthquakes measuring 3.6, 3.9 and 4.1 magnitude at 2.15 am, 2.17 am and 3.23 am, respectively. All originated from nearby locations in the district at a depth of 10 km.

As many as 105 houses suffered damage in Hingoli district, officials said.

The tremors were felt in neighbouring districts, including Latur, Parbhani and Nanded, prompting many residents to rush outdoors. While several videos of the incidents surfaced on social media, authorities have not verified their authenticity.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage. However, the repeated tremors have heightened concern, especially as Hingoli has witnessed recurring seismic activity in recent months. NCS data shows two earthquakes measuring 3.6 and 3.5 magnitude struck the district on July 2, while a 4.7-magnitude earthquake was recorded on April 11.

The administration plans to issue an advisory asking residents not to place heavy stones on tin-sheet roofs, which could increase the risk of casualties during earthquakes. It will also survey kaccha (temporary) houses and provide eligible families with homes under the state’s affordable housing scheme, he said.

Gupta said earthquake activity in Hingoli has increased since 2017, with two to three villages repeatedly emerging as epicentres. A preliminary study by experts from Nanded University suggested tectonic plate movement as a possible cause, but a detailed scientific investigation has been proposed to the state government. The district has also sought installation of dedicated seismic monitoring equipment to strengthen earthquake monitoring and preparedness.