  | |
| UTC time | 2009-09-21 08:53:05 |
|---|---|
| ISC event | 13788745 |
| USGS-ANSS | ComCat |
| Local date | 21 September 2009 |
| Local time | 14:53:05 |
| Magnitude | 6.1 [1][2] |
| Depth | 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) |
| Epicenter | 27°20′46″N 91°24′43″E / 27.346°N 91.412°E |
| Areas affected | Bhutan India China |
| Max. intensity | VI (Strong) |
| Casualties | at least 11 [2] |
The 2009 Bhutan earthquake occurred on 21 September at 14:53 BTT (08:53 UTC) in the eastern region of Bhutan with moment magnitude of 6.1. The epicenter was situated at 180 kilometres (110 mi) east of the capital Thimphu, in Monggar District.[3] However, Bangladesh and northern India also felt it, with residents in Guwahati, Assam reporting cracks in buildings.[4] The tremors were felt as far as Tibet.[5]
At least eleven people are reported to have been killed—seven in Bhutan, four in India.[2] The death toll, initially ten, increased when one more died in the night.[6][7][8][9] At least fifteen were wounded.[2] Many of the deaths in Bhutan came about when their houses fell in on top of them.[2] The Indians were construction workers whose road fell through.[2]
One businessman said the earthquake happened as shopping was underway for the Blessed Rainy Day ceremony of Buddhism.[4] Another inhabitant said it "made the surrounding hills look like they were throwing up dust" and that "the road was suddenly filled with boulders and mud".[2] Thousands are living outdoors as a result.[4] Children were crushed under structures as they caved in.[4] Roads were blocked but these were cleaned up relatively quickly.[4] Monasteries were also struck.[9] People ran for their lives out of their homes.[9]
