Bangladesh is experiencing a significant surge in seismic activity, with 10 earthquakes recorded across the country in the first 27 days of February 2026. While most of the tremors ranged from mild to moderate, the increasing frequency has sparked widespread panic among citizens and urgent warnings from geological experts.
According to data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), the latest tremor struck on Friday (February 27) at 1:52:24 PM. The quake, measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale, was felt in Dhaka and various parts of the country. Its epicenter was identified in the Ashashuni Upazila of Satkhira.
A Month of Tremors: Timeline of Activity
The month has seen a relentless succession of shocks from both domestic and international epicenters:
- February 26: A 4.6 magnitude quake centered in Sikkim, India (455 km NW of Dhaka).
- February 25: Tremors felt across Dhaka originating from an epicenter in Myanmar.
- February 19: A 4.1 magnitude earthquake recorded in Chhatak, Sunamganj.
- February 9 & 10: Two consecutive tremors (magnitudes 3.3 and 4.0) felt in Gowainghat, Sylhet.
- February 3: A high-activity day featuring three quakes:
- Two major tremors originating from Myanmar (magnitudes 5.9 and 5.2).
- A 4.1 magnitude quake centered in Kalaroa, Satkhira.
- February 1: The month began with a 3.0 magnitude tremor southeast of Sylhet city.
Expert Concerns and Structural Risks
Geologists and disaster management experts are expressing grave concern over this “seismic cluster.” While it remains uncertain whether these frequent mild tremors are precursors to a massive earthquake, experts emphasize that Bangladesh sits on a highly active tectonic junction.
“The frequency of these quakes is a wake-up call. Being located in a high-risk seismic zone, it is now mandatory to strictly follow building codes and strengthen national preparedness,” stated a leading geologist.
Call for Public Awareness
Authorities are urging the public not to panic but to remain vigilant. Experts suggest that local government bodies must prioritize:
- Retrofitting vulnerable buildings in densely populated areas like Dhaka and Sylhet.
- Conducting regular earthquake drills.
- Ensuring all new constructions strictly adhere to the Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC).
