An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.1 on the Richter scale struck central Assam, India, early on Monday, January 5, 2026. According to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake occurred at approximately 4:17 AM Indian Standard Time (IST). The epicenter was located in the Morigaon district of Assam, at a latitude of 26.37 N and a longitude of 92.29 E, with a depth of 50 kilometers.
Initial reports indicate that there have been no casualties or significant damage to property. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation in case of aftershocks or delayed effects.
The tremors were felt across several districts in Assam, including Kamrup Metropolitan, Nagaon, East Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong, Hojai, Dima Hasao, Golaghat, Jorhat, Sivasagar, Charaideo, Cachar, Karimganj, Hailakandi, Dhubri, South Salmara-Mankachar and Goalpara. The jolt was also felt in Darrang, Tamulpur, Sonitpur, Kamrup, Biswanath, Udalguri, Nalbari, Bajali, Barpeta, Baksa, Chirang, Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon and Lakhimpur. Residents in these areas reported experiencing mild to moderate tremors, which caused many to rush out of their homes in panic.
Beyond Assam, the earthquake's impact was felt in neighboring regions, including parts of central-western Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, and West Bengal. The tremors also extended into central-eastern Bhutan, parts of China, and Bangladesh.
The northeastern region of India is known for its high seismic activity, making it prone to earthquakes. This is due to its location in a complex geological zone where several tectonic plates converge. The NCS and local authorities advise residents to remain vigilant and take necessary safety precautions in the event of aftershocks. These precautions include staying away from vulnerable structures, seeking open spaces, and following official guidance from disaster management agencies.
