Kathmandu: A moderate earthquake of 4.1 magnitude struck the Sudurpaschim province of Nepal on Monday afternoon, March 23, 2026. According to the National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre, the tremor was recorded at 1:14 PM local time. The epicentre of the seismic activity was identified near the Rayal area in the Bajhang district. While the shaking caused temporary panic among residents, there have been no immediate reports of loss of life or significant damage to property.
The tremors were felt across several neighbouring districts, including Bajura, Baitadi, and parts of Darchula. This marks the second seismic event in the province within a week, following a magnitude 4.0 earthquake that hit the Sitaula area of Darchula on March 17. The recurrent activity has heightened concerns among local authorities in a region that is historically vulnerable to tectonic shifts.
Nepal is ranked as the 11th most earthquake-prone country globally, situated in the highly active Seismic Zones IV and V. The Himalayan nation sits on the boundary where the Indian and Eurasian plates meet, making it susceptible to frequent and sometimes devastating tremors. Disaster management teams in Sudurpaschim have been placed on alert to monitor any potential aftershocks or reports of structural vulnerabilities in rural hilly terrains.
Local residents in the affected districts are being advised to remain cautious, particularly those living in older mud-and-stone houses that are more susceptible to cracks during such events. The National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre continues to track the regional plate movements as part of its ongoing seismic surveillance.
