An earthquake measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale jolted Guwahati and several parts of Assam in the early hours of Monday, January 5, causing brief panic among residents.
The tremor was felt at around 4:17 AM, when many people across Guwahati reported shaking of beds, windows, and household items. Some residents stepped outdoors as a precaution, while others experienced the tremor inside high-rise buildings.
According to official data, there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage to property.
What happened?
An earthquake of magnitude 5.1 struck Assam at 4:17 AM on January 5, 2026, with its epicentre located in Morigaon district. The quake originated at a depth of 50 km, and tremors were felt across Guwahati and other parts of the Northeast. Authorities confirmed that no loss of life or major damage was reported.
Official details from seismology authorities
The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) confirmed that the earthquake was recorded at:
- Magnitude: 5.1
- Time: 4:17 AM, January 5
- Epicentre: Morigaon district, Assam
- Latitude: 26.37° N
- Longitude: 92.29° E
- Depth: 50 km
The tremors were reported from multiple districts of Assam and were also felt in neighbouring Northeastern states.
Impact in Guwahati
In Guwahati, residents across several localities reported mild to moderate tremors lasting a few seconds. While there was no structural damage reported, the sudden shaking led to concern, particularly given the early morning timing.
Emergency services and district authorities said they were monitoring the situation but had not received any distress calls related to injuries or collapses.
Assam’s seismic vulnerability
The Northeast region, including Assam, lies in Seismic Zone V, one of the most earthquake-prone zones in the country. Experts have repeatedly warned that moderate to strong earthquakes are a recurring risk in the region due to tectonic activity along the Himalayan belt.
Authorities continue to urge residents to follow basic earthquake safety guidelines, especially in multi-storey buildings.
What happens next?
Officials said they will continue to assess reports from districts near the epicentre. If required, further advisories will be issued. Residents have been advised to stay alert but not panic, as no aftershocks have been officially reported so far.
Frequently Asked Questions
The epicentre was located in the Morigaon district of Assam, according to the National Centre for Seismology.
As of now, no loss of life or damage to property has been reported in Guwahati or other affected areas.
