Indian Ocean Shaken by Multiple Earthquakes: A Wake-Up Call for Coastal Communities

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A series of earthquakes hit the Indian Ocean on Thursday, with the strongest one measuring 5.3 magnitude. According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquakes occurred at a shallow depth of 10km, making them potentially more destructive. The NCS reported three earthquakes in the region, including a 6.4 magnitude quake earlier in the day and a 4.8 magnitude quake in the early hours of the morning. The Indian Ocean has experienced devastating tsunamis in the past, with the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami being one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history. The massive tsunami, triggered by a 9.2-9.3 magnitude earthquake, claimed over 227,000 lives in 14 countries. The region's vulnerability to seismic activity highlights the importance of disaster preparedness and evacuation plans for coastal communities. Shallow earthquakes, like the ones that struck the Indian Ocean, are generally more hazardous than deep earthquakes due to the stronger ground shaking and potential damage to structures. As the world remembers the devastating impact of the Boxing Day Tsunami, it is essential to acknowledge the ongoing threat posed by seismic activity in the region.