A mild earthquake struck near Kaliakair in Gazipur district, Bangladesh, on the evening of February 1, 2026, with tremors felt across parts of Dhaka, causing brief panic among residents.
According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), the earthquake occurred at 6:30:26 PM local time (BST). The epicentre was located at 24.12°N latitude and 90.20°E longitude, placing it roughly 42–50 kilometres northwest of Dhaka. The quake measured around magnitude 3.2, classifying it as a light earthquake.
What Happened?
Light earthquakes of this magnitude usually do not cause structural damage, but they can still be felt indoors—especially in high-rise buildings. Many residents in Dhaka reported feeling short-lived shaking, prompting people to step outside homes and offices as a precaution. However, no injuries, casualties, or damage to property were reported from this event.
Why Did People Panic?
Although the February 1 tremor was weak, public concern was heightened due to recent seismic activity in Bangladesh. In November 2025, a stronger magnitude 5.7 earthquake near Narsingdi caused widespread panic and resulted in casualties, making residents more alert to even minor tremors.
Recent Earthquake Activity
Bangladesh has experienced several small earthquakes in early 2026, including:
- A magnitude 2.8 quake on February 3, about 299 km east of Dhaka
- A magnitude 4.1 quake on the same day, around 172 km southwest of the capital
These frequent low-intensity quakes indicate ongoing tectonic movement in the region.
Is Bangladesh at Risk?
Bangladesh lies close to the boundary of the Indian Plate and Burmese Plate, making it part of a seismically active zone. While most tremors are minor, experts warn that the region is capable of experiencing stronger earthquakes. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department continues to closely monitor seismic activity across the country.
What Should Residents Do?
Authorities advise people to remain calm during minor tremors and follow basic earthquake safety measures, such as staying away from windows and heavy objects. Regular preparedness is key, even when earthquakes appear mild.
For now, officials have confirmed that the February 1 earthquake posed no threat, but it serves as a reminder of Bangladesh’s underlying seismic vulnerability.
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