A moderate earthquake of magnitude 5.5 struck Bangladesh on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 2:44 PM local time. The epicenter of the earthquake was located in Sylhet, a city in northeastern Bangladesh. Tremors were felt across the country, including in the capital city of Dhaka.
According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), the earthquake was shallow, with a depth of only 10 kilometers. This means that the earthquake was relatively close to the surface, which is why tremors were felt so widely.
There have been no reports of casualties or significant damage to property. However, some people have reported feeling tremors and experiencing minor shaking.
The BMD is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed.
Earthquake Safety Tips
Here are some tips for staying safe during an earthquake:
- If you are indoors, drop, cover, and hold on. Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on to it until the shaking stops.
- If you are outdoors, move away from buildings, trees, and power lines. Seek open space and stay away from potential hazards.
- If you are in a vehicle, pull over to a safe location and stop. Stay in the vehicle and avoid driving until the shaking stops.
Be Prepared
It is important to be prepared for an earthquake. Here are some things you can do to prepare:
- Make sure your home is earthquake-resistant. This includes having your home inspected by a professional and making any necessary repairs.
- Have an earthquake emergency plan in place. This plan should include what to do in the event of an earthquake, such as where to meet and how to communicate with each other.
- Create an emergency kit. This kit should include food, water, first aid supplies, and other essential items.
By following these tips, you can help to stay safe during an earthquake.
