At least 140 killed and over 100 injured in a 6.4 magnitude earthquake that shook Nepal

At least 140 dead and over 100 injured in a 6.4 magnitude earthquake that rattled Nepal on Friday The earthquake's impact could be felt as far away as Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Kolkata, and Bihar. The earthquake hit at around 11.47 p.m., with the epicenter in Jajrakot's Lamidanda.

Taking to X, Nepal’s Prime Minister's Office posted, “Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property in the earthquake on Friday night and has mobilized all the three security bodies for the immediate rescue and relief.” The Prime Minister went to the ground to assess the situation on Saturday morning. Several medical teams were dispatched to tend to those injured. The Nepal Army and Nepal Police were also called up to assist with rescue operations.

Social Media is flooded with photos and videos of wreckage emerging from Nepal that show the devastation caused by the massive earthquake. Reposts suggest that several people have been trapped in the debris. The districts of Jajarkot and West Rukum have reported the highest number of casualties.
According to the National Earthquake Monitoring Centre, the massive earthquake was followed by a 4.5 magnitude tremor that struck at 12.08 a.m., 4.2 at 12.29, 4.3 at 12.35, and 4.6 at 4.16 a.m.

“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives and damage due to the earthquake in Nepal. India stands in solidarity with the people of Nepal and is ready to extend all possible assistance. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families and we wish the injured a quick recovery.” tweeted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, extending his support to Nepal.

Nepal is prone to earthquakes due to its location at the juncture of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Around 9,000 people were killed in 2015 by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake and its aftershocks.