A strong earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale struck Nepal early Friday morning, causing tremors across the Himalayan region, including Bihar’s Patna and Muzaffarpur. The quake occurred around 2:35 AM near Bhairab Kunda in Nepal’s Sindhupalchok district, according to reports. Different agencies recorded varying magnitudes for the earthquake. While India’s National Centre for Seismology estimated it at 5.5, the German Research Centre for Geosciences measured it at 5.6. However, it remains unclear whether multiple tremors occurred.

A 6.1 magnitude earthquake is considered strong and can cause severe structural damage, especially near the epicenter. However, as of now, no casualties or major destruction have been reported. Many residents in Nepal and Bihar were jolted awake by the tremors and rushed outside in panic. "It shook us from our sleep. We ran out of our homes, but people have now returned. No reports of damage or injuries yet," said Ganesh Nepali, a senior official in Nepal.

Several people shared videos online showing buildings and ceiling fans shaking in Patna. A social media user mentioned that the tremors lasted for about 35 seconds, while another, Nikhil Singh, wrote, “Felt a strong earthquake in Patna, Bihar. Everything was shaking, but no visible damage so far.” Earlier this year, Tibet’s Himalayan region experienced a series of earthquakes, the most powerful measuring 7.1 magnitude, which claimed over 125 lives. The impact of Friday’s quake is still being assessed, with authorities monitoring the situation closely.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from India Today.