What caused the earthquake in Delhi on January 19, 2026?

A 2.8 magnitude earthquake occurred in North Delhi due to seismic activity near active fault lines.

Is Delhi prone to earthquakes?

Yes, Delhi is located in a high-risk Zone IV due to its proximity to active fault lines and specific geological conditions.

Were there any damages from the Delhi earthquake?

No, the earthquake on January 19, 2026, was mild and caused no immediate reports of casualties or property damage.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Delhi Jolted: Mild Quake Shakes Capital

Delhi Jolted: Mild Quake Shakes Capital

19 Jan

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Summary

A 2.8 magnitude earthquake struck North Delhi on January 19, 2026.
The earthquake originated at a shallow depth of 5 kilometers.
No casualties or property damage were reported following the mild tremors.

A mild earthquake measuring 2.8 on the Richter scale struck New Delhi on the morning of January 19, 2026, causing brief tremors across parts of the national capital. The National Centre for Seismology reported the earthquake occurred at 8:44 a.m. IST, with its epicenter in North Delhi at a shallow depth of 5 kilometers. No casualties or property damage were immediately reported.

The seismic event underscored Delhi's vulnerability to earthquakes, as the National Capital Region lies near several active fault lines. Experts have long warned about the seismic risks in this densely populated capital, noting that geological conditions, especially in eastern Delhi along the Yamuna floodplains with soft soil, can amplify seismic waves.

India's seismic zoning system, updated in 2025, categorizes regions from least to most active. Delhi remains in Zone IV, classifying it as a high-risk area, alongside several cities in Uttar Pradesh. Earlier, in November 2025, a stronger 5.7 magnitude earthquake in Bangladesh caused tremors felt across eastern India.