Second Major Earthquake in Nepal, Magnitude of 7.3

Second Major Earthquake in Nepal, Magnitude of 7.3

A second major earthquake struck Nepal earlier this week on May 12th with a magnitude of 7.3. Less than a month ago an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 struck Nepal and killed over 8000 people.  It is estimated that over 70 people have been killed in the second quake and over 2000 have been injured. The earthquake has affected neighboring countries such as India, Tibet, and Bangaladesh. Interestingly enough the most recent earthquake is actually being regarded as an aftershock to the initial earthquake in April, according to The Earthquake Hazards Program.

Many of the districts that were affected by the first quake experienced landslides and completely destroyed homes. Specifically in the district of Dolakha, the first quake had brought down at least 50% of the homes, the second earthquake has left just 5% in habitable condition reported CNN. This district is also the same one where a U.S. military helicopter is believed to have gone missing. The helicopter was assisting in earthquake relief efforts. According to another article also published by CNN, the Pentagon has said that the crew onboard the helicopter was having issues with fuel before they lost contact.

Since the initial earthquake in April, Nepal has been subject to at least 94 aftershocks, reported The Huffington Post. An earthquake forecast was published by Scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey in which they predict the probability of more quakes in the future. As of right now more aftershocks are predicted, there is an 80% chance that Nepal will experience another earthquake in the next week or so with a magnitude ranging from 5 to 6.

What causes the quakes to happen in this area?  According to TIME, Nepal sits on a continental collision zone between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate and pressure that builds up between the plates results in earthquakes. Unfortunately the first earthquake in April probably contributed to more pressure between the plates resulting in the numerous aftershocks.

Anyone interested in donating to relief efforts for Nepal can do so through The RedCross.