Natural calamities like earthquakes and tsunamis cannot be predicted

Natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis strike without warning, leading to widespread devastation and the loss of many innocent lives. The recent earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.7 in Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand, has left a trail of sorrow among those affected, with many losing their loved ones. Multi-story buildings have crumbled into rubble, roads have been destroyed, and houses have been reduced to ruins, leaving countless people homeless and grieving. Many countries have extended humanitarian aid, sending food and essential supplies to the worst-hit regions.

Various factors contribute to the occurrence of earthquakes and tsunamis, including changing temperatures, rising sea levels, and other environmental shifts. Unfortunately, natural disasters remain unpredictable.

India and its neighboring countries have witnessed several devastating earthquakes throughout history. Below are some of the significant earthquakes that have struck the region:

- April 26, 1833: Bihar and Kathmandu – Magnitude 8.0
- April 4, 1905: Kangra – Magnitude 8.0
- July 2, 1930Assam – Magnitude 7.1
- January 15, 1934: Nepal – Magnitude 8.0
- August 15, 1950: Assam and Tibet – Magnitude 8.6
- March 21, 1954: India/Myanmar – Magnitude 7.4
- August 6, 1988: Myanmar/India – Magnitude 7.3
- January 26, 2001: Gujarat – Magnitude 7.7
- October 8, 2005: Kashmir – Magnitude 7.6
- August 10, 2009: Andaman – Magnitude 7.5
- April 25, 2015: Nepal/Andaman, India – Magnitude 7.8
- May 12, 2015: Nepal – Magnitude 7.3
- October 26, 2015: Afghanistan, India, Pakistan – Magnitude 7.7
- March 28, 2025: Myanmar, Thailand – Magnitude 7.7

Sometimes, the epicenter of an earthquake is deep under the ocean, increasing the risk of a tsunami. Such events pose a severe threat to coastal residential areas, causing further destruction. Interestingly, animals and birds often exhibit unusual behavior before natural calamities, instinctively seeking safer places.

With advancements in science and technology, authorities can now issue warnings to people living in coastal areas, allowing them to take necessary precautions. However, earthquakes remain unpredictable, and when they strike, they result in immense loss of life and property.

While technological progress has given humankind an edge in disaster management, it is essential to recognize that nature is beyond human control. Earthquakes and tsunamis serve as stark reminders of the power of natural forces, reducing skyscrapers, buildings, and infrastructure to rubble within seconds.

Authored by:  
Rajat Kumar Mohindru
Journalist, Jalandhar City