6.2 magnitude earthquake rattles Indian Ocean

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

On November 14, the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported a significant seismic event in the Indian Ocean, registering a magnitude of 6.2.

The earthquake, occurring at 12:31:10 IST, was located at coordinates Lat: -2.96, Long: 86.54, with a depth of 10 km. The epicenter was situated 1326 km southeast of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The seismic activity, originating 800 km southeast of Sri Lanka, unfolded in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean. Despite the considerable magnitude and proximity, reports from the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau assured that there was no immediate danger posed to Sri Lanka. The earthquake’s depth, recorded at 10 km, suggests a considerable subsea event, potentially mitigating the impact on nearby coastal regions.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s impact extended beyond the immediate vicinity, with a reported magnitude of 6.1. The USGS placed the epicenter approximately 1,295 km from North Sumatra, Indonesia. This geographical spread indicates the far-reaching consequences of the seismic activity, affecting a substantial area in the Indian Ocean region.

Local media outlets in Sri Lanka noted the seismic event but emphasized that there were no reports of damage or threats to the island nation. The Geological Survey and Mines Bureau’s statement further underlined the absence of peril to Sri Lanka, providing reassurance to the local population.

Seismic events in the Indian Ocean region are not uncommon due to its tectonic activity, and monitoring agencies play a crucial role in disseminating timely information to mitigate potential risks. The NCS and USGS serve as vital resources in understanding and responding to such occurrences, offering valuable data for both immediate response and long-term seismic risk assessment.

While the earthquake’s intensity and location raised concerns, the swift communication of information by monitoring agencies and the absence of reported damage in Sri Lanka underscore the significance of preparedness and effective dissemination of information in managing seismic events in the region.

« Back to Page

• Northern Papua New Guinea Rattled by Strong 6.5 Earthquake

• New York Stands Resilient After Being Rattled by 4.8 Earthquake

• Taiwan earthquake rattles travel industry

• Massive quake in Taiwan triggers tsunami alert

• Powerful 5.7 magnitude earthquake rocks the tourist attractions in Greece