Two Back-to-Back Earthquakes Strike Northwestern Nepal, Causing Panic but No Damage

Public Lokpal
September 16, 2026

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Two Back-to-Back Earthquakes Strike Northwestern Nepal, Causing Panic but No Damage

KATHMANDU: Two successive earthquakes shook northwestern Nepal in the early hours of Wednesday, sending panicked residents fleeing into the streets. However, local authorities confirmed that there are no immediate reports of casualties or structural damage.

According to the National Seismological Research Centre, the first tremor—measuring 4.5 magnitude—struck at 1:51 a.m. local time. It was quickly followed by a second, 4.2-magnitude aftershock at 4:28 a.m.

Both earthquakes shared their epicenter around Kalai in the remote Mugu district. The jolts were also distinctly felt across neighboring hilly regions, including the Dolpa and Jumla districts.

The sudden mid-night tremors triggered widespread panic among locals, many of whom remained outdoors out of fear of further shaking, especially given the region's fragile topography and recent heavy monsoon disruptions.

Local disaster management teams and police units have been mobilized to conduct safety assessments in remote pockets near the epicenter. Authorities continue to monitor the area for potential aftershocks and have urged residents to stay alert.