Earthquake-Prone Areas in Andhra and Telangana: Zone-Wise Analysis

Seismic zones categorize regions based on their vulnerability to earthquakes. These zones are determined by analyzing the earth's inner layers, gaps, cracks, and the possibility of movement. The vibration levels in each zone are estimated, ranging from the least hazardous (Zone-1) to the most vulnerable (Zone-5).

Seismic Zones and Their Characteristics

Zone-1:
Regions with minimal seismic activity. The vibrations here are so faint they are almost undetectable.

Zone-2:
Areas with mild seismic intensity, ranging between 0.1 and 4 on the Richter scale. In Telangana, cities like Hyderabad, Nizamabad, and Nalgonda fall under this zone. In Andhra Pradesh, regions such as Kurnool, Nandyala, and Anantapur are included. Earthquakes here cause little to no damage.

Zone-3:
Areas where earthquakes range from 5 to 6 on the Richter scale. This zone includes:

Telangana: Chandrapur (Maharashtra border), regions along the Godavari River, Ramagundam, Mancherial, Bhupalapalli, Bellampalli, Bhadrachalam, and Khammam.

Andhra Pradesh: East and West Godavari districts, Ongole, and Nellore.
Other national hotspots in this zone include the western coastal areas and Ganga-Yamuna river basins. Moderate damage is possible in these regions.

Zone-4:
Areas with a seismic intensity of 6 to 7 on the Richter scale. States like Maharashtra (including Mumbai), Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Delhi fall under this category. These areas are at significant risk of severe earthquakes.

Zone-5:
The most earthquake-prone areas with seismic activity exceeding 7 on the Richter scale. This zone includes:

Himalayan regions.

Jammu and Kashmir.

North-Eastern states.

Parts of Gujarat.
These areas face the highest risk of damage from earthquakes.

Seismic Safety Awareness

Understanding seismic zones is crucial for disaster preparedness and mitigating risks in vulnerable regions. Residents and authorities must take necessary precautions based on the zone classification.

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