Bangladesh Braces for Major Quake as Four Tremors Strike in 32 Hours
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Bangladesh is on high alert after being hit by four earthquakes in 32 hours, leaving at least 10 people dead and hundreds injured. The series of quakes, including a 5.7-magnitude tremor on Friday, has sent shockwaves across the country, with experts warning of a major earthquake. The first quake on Friday morning caused significant damage to buildings in central Bangladesh, including the capital Dhaka. A second tremor struck on Saturday morning, followed by two more on Saturday evening. While the latter two quakes were considered minor and light, they have raised concerns about the country's seismic vulnerability. According to the Bangladesh Meteorology Department (BMD), the epicentre of the second quake was located beneath the crowded Badda area in Dhaka, while the third quake occurred in Narsingdi. Experts say the country is at high risk of a major earthquake due to its location on the collision zone of major tectonic plates and numerous active fault lines. Dhaka is considered one of the world's 20 most earthquake-vulnerable cities, with a dense population and many dilapidated buildings. The region has a long history of powerful earthquakes, with five major tremors between 1869 and 1930 measuring above 7.0 on the Richter scale. "Although the magnitude was below six, the shaking lasted longer because the soil composition in our region is relatively weak," said Md Momenul Islam, acting director of the BMD. "We urge the people to be prepared for a major earthquake, which could strike anytime soon."
