Leh, Ladakh, experienced two shallow earthquakes on Thursday, August 13, 2026, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). A significant 5.5-magnitude tremor struck in the early morning, followed by a 4.3-magnitude quake later that same morning. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or major structural damage.
First Tremor Strikes Leh
The initial and stronger earthquake, measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale, occurred at 6:05:15 am IST. The NCS identified its epicentre in Leh, Ladakh, approximately 302 km north-northwest of Kargil. The quake originated at a shallow depth of just 10 kilometres. Shallow earthquakes are known to produce more intense shaking at the surface because seismic waves travel a shorter distance before reaching populated areas, though the actual impact is also influenced by other factors like building resilience.
Second Quake Follows Hours Later
A second, 4.3-magnitude earthquake was recorded in the same Leh, Ladakh region at 9:54:12 am IST, just hours after the first. This tremor also originated at a depth of 10 kilometres, with its epicentre located about 256 km north-northwest of Kargil. The NCS database marked this event as "reviewed and felt." Officials have not yet confirmed whether this second quake was an aftershock of the earlier 5.5-magnitude event.
No Immediate Damage or Casualties Reported
As of Thursday morning, authorities have not received any reports of fatalities, injuries, or significant structural damage resulting from either earthquake. Despite the strong shaking potential due to the shallow depth of both tremors, the absence of initial damage reports provides considerable relief. Assessments are ongoing, particularly for older or more vulnerable structures in the affected region, as agencies continue to monitor the situation closely.