Few folks in the Kashmir Valley had time to react when shaking started just past dawn on February 2 because 2026. A quake measuring 4.7 rattled windows and walls without warning during quiet bedroom hours. Though not extreme, it sent families scrambling outside before fully waking up. Some stood barefoot in courtyards until the ground settled again.
The Details: Epicenter and Intensity
According to the National Center for Seismology (NCS), the earthquake occurred at approximately 5:35 AM IST.
- Magnitude: 4.7 (initially reported as 4.6 and 4.8 by various agencies).
- Epicenter: Located near the Pattan area in the Baramulla district, roughly 10 km northeast of the tourist resort of Gulmarg.
- Depth: The quake was shallow, recorded at a depth of 10 km. Shallow earthquakes are often felt more intensely on the surface compared to deeper ones.
- Duration: Locals reported the shaking lasted for about 15 to 20 seconds.
Far into North and Central Kashmir, shaking reached places like Srinagar, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal, along with Kupwara. Over in Pakistan-administered Kashmir too, people noticed the ground moving beneath them.
No Major Damage Reported
Few sounds cut through the shaking – windows shuddering, frames trembling – but no one has called out for help yet across the valley. Not a single building shows clear harm where the tremors passed.
Right now, the State Disaster Management Authority is watching things closely alongside local officials. Stay calm – that’s what they’re asking everyone to do. Spreading unconfirmed stories online? Better left alone. Trust only what’s verified, say authorities, as rumors make everything harder.
Why Kashmir is Earthquake-Prone
Beneath the quiet hills, tension builds silently. Right there, Earth’s crust moves without warning. Pressure piles up as one massive slab shoves slowly under another. That slow grind gave rise to towering peaks long ago. Tremors pop up often because that force never lets go. This land rests directly above restless forces. Shaking is not a matter of if – only when.
Safety First: What to Do During an Earthquake
While today’s quake was moderate, it serves as a reminder to stay prepared. Here are the standard safety protocols:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: If you are indoors, get under a sturdy piece of furniture.
- Stay Away from Glass: Move away from windows, mirrors, and hanging objects.
- Find an Open Space: If you are outside, move away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
- Do Not Use Elevators: If you are in a multi-story building, use the stairs once the shaking stops.
- Check for Aftershocks: Be prepared for smaller tremors that often follow the main event.