Nepal was hit by a major earthquake on April 25, 2015, followed by numerous aftershocks. The first of these earthquakes had a magnitude of 7.93.4 and its focus is 15 kilometers deep, according to the United States Geological Survey.
The epicenter of this earthquake is located 77 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu in Nepal and 68 kilometers from Pokhara (Nepal’s second-largest city). The tremor would have been felt as far away as New Delhi as well as throughout northern India. The earthquake caused avalanches on Mount Everest that covered two climbers’ camps.
This is the most powerful earthquake in Nepal since that of January 15, 1934, whose magnitude was estimated at 8, and which left 17,000 dead in Nepal itself and in neighboring Bihar. It was also the largest earthquake in the world since the 8.2 magnitude earthquake that occurred in Chile in April 2014. The number of victims was high due to the magnitude and the fragility of the homes in the Nepalese capital, which also has many temples, wooden Hindus, and site effects due to the lithology of the Kathmandu basin. Several significant aftershocks, of magnitude greater than 5, were felt in the following days.
Three new major aftershocks, exceeding magnitude 7, were recorded on May 12, 2015. They were felt 15 kilometers from China as well as 30 kilometers from Mount Everest, and even as far as southern India. After the 8,126 deaths caused by the earthquake of April 25 and its immediate aftershocks, hundreds of additional victims were to be deplored because of these new tremors.
Nestled within the seismic heart of the Himalayas, Nepal faces a constant threat: earthquakes. These natural disasters, with their devastating power, pose a significant danger to communities across the region. As Dayalou Passerelle, we recognize the urgent need to address this peril and mitigate its impact on vulnerable populations.
Earthquakes in Nepal have the potential to cause widespread destruction, claiming lives, destroying homes, and disrupting livelihoods. The aftermath leaves communities shattered and in desperate need of assistance. Through our initiatives, we aim to raise awareness about earthquake preparedness and provide support to those affected by these catastrophic events.
By equipping communities with the knowledge and resources needed to withstand earthquakes, we strive to minimize the loss of life and property. Through collaborative efforts with local partners and stakeholders, we work towards building resilient communities that can weather the tremors of nature with courage and strength.
