Thu, 25 Jun 2026 · LIVE
Updated Jun 25, 2026 · 08:15
World News Updated Jun 25, 2026

3.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Nepal; Japan, Venezuela Also Rocked

A 3.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal on Thursday morning, occurring at a depth of 25 kilometers. The National Centre of Seismology reported the quake, which is categorized as a shallow earthquake and thus potentially more dangerous. Meanwhile, Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged citizens to remain vigilant after a strong earthquake hit off the coast of Iwate Prefecture. Additionally, Venezuela's capital Caracas was hit by two powerful earthquakes, with the USGS estimating a potential death toll ranging from 10,000 to 100,000.

3.8 magnitude earthquake hits Nepal

Kathmandu, June 25

An earthquake of 3.8 magnitude hit Nepal on Thursday morning, as reported by the National Centre of Seismology.

In a post on X, the NCS said that the earthquake occurred at 5:21 AM at a depth of 25 kilometres in Nepal.

The post said, "EQ of M: 3.8, On: 25/06/2026 05:21:43 IST, Lat: 28.762 N, Long: 81.918 E, Depth: 25 Km, Location: Nepal."

Shallow earthquakes are generally more dangerous than deep earthquakes. This is because the seismic waves from shallow earthquakes have a shorter distance to travel to the surface, resulting in stronger ground shaking and potentially more damage to structures and greater casualties.

Earthquakes can occur anywhere between the Earth's surface and about 700 kilometres below the surface. For scientific purposes, this earthquake depth range of 0 - 700 km is divided into three zones: shallow, intermediate, and deep, as per USGS data.

Shallow earthquakes are between 0 and 70 km deep; intermediate earthquakes, 70 - 300 km deep; and deep earthquakes, 300 - 700 km deep. In general, the term "deep-focus earthquakes" is applied to earthquakes deeper than 70 km, the USGS states.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi advised citizens to remain vigilant after an earthquake with its epicentre off the coast of Iwate Prefecture occurred, and a strong shaking with a maximum seismic intensity of 6-upper was observed in Hashikami Town, Aomori Prefecture.

Takaichi instructed relevant ministries and agencies to provide timely and accurate information to the public regarding evacuation and damage, and said there is no concern about a tsunami.

"Around 7:30 a.m. today, an earthquake with its epicenter off the coast of Iwate Prefecture occurred, and a strong shaking with a maximum seismic intensity of 6-upper was observed in Hashikami Town, Aomori Prefecture. There is no concern about a tsunami," she said in a post on X.

"To those in the areas where the shaking was strong, I ask that you continue to remain vigilant for the possibility of earthquakes of similar intensity. From now on, I will receive detailed reports and take charge of the disaster response," she added.

Meanwhile, the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, was hit by two powerful earthquakes that struck the same area on Wednesday evening, causing buildings to collapse, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

It is estimating the death toll could likely range from 10,000 to 100,000.

According to the US Geological Survey, the first earthquake of magnitude 7.2 struck near San Felipe, about 284km (176 miles) west of Caracas, at 22:04 GMT.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Priya S

These shallow earthquakes are always scary. Even a small one can cause damage if it's shallow. Stay safe, Nepal. India is always there for you.

Michael C

Interesting that the article also covers the Venezuela earthquakes. 10,000 to 100,000 potential deaths is horrifying. Shows we should always be prepared.

Deepak U

Why does the article jump from a small Nepal quake to Japan and Venezuela? It's confusing. But important to note that Nepal sits on a fault line. Hope our neighbours are okay.

Sneha F

I remember the 2015 Nepal earthquake. Even small tremors bring back memories. We need better early warning systems in South Asia. 🙏

Justin A

The depth (25 km) is shallow, which is concerning. Even a 3.8 can be felt strongly. Glad the report is clear about the science.

Kavya N

India-Nepal are like brothers. Whenever nature shakes, we stand together. Hope the damage is minimal. Let's spread awareness about earthquake safety.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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