At 05:05:46 IST on Sunday, July 12, 2026, the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) recorded a magnitude‑4.5 earthquake in the Bay of Bengal. The seismic event originated 10 km beneath the seabed, with its epicentre located at 16.805° N latitude and 84.381° E longitude.

Geographic Context and Affected Areas

The epicentre lies about 227 km east of Kakinada and 275 km east of Rajahmundry, placing the quake well offshore. It was also detected 282 km south of Berhampur (Odisha), 367 km south‑south‑west of Puri, and 355 km southeast of Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh). In Visakhapatnam, residents of MVP Colony, Pedawaltair, Gajuwaka, Yendada and Arilova reported brief, mild shaking lasting a few seconds.

Historical and Tectonic Background

The Bay of Bengal sits on the complex boundary between the Indian Plate and the Indo‑Australian Plate, a region historically prone to seismic activity. Notable events include the 2001 M 7.7 Gujarat earthquake and several offshore tremors of magnitude 5‑6 in the past two decades. While a 4.5‑magnitude quake is moderate, its offshore location underscores the need for vigilance along densely populated coastlines.

Official Response and Safety Guidance

After verification, NCS classified the event as “Reviewed,” confirming the data’s accuracy. Local authorities advised citizens to stay away from windows, secure heavy objects, and familiarize themselves with emergency exit routes. Experts warn that deeper or stronger quakes in the same zone could impact coastal infrastructure, making preparedness essential.

Looking Ahead

Continuous monitoring of the Bay of Bengal’s seismicity is crucial. NCS is accelerating plans for a dedicated coastal early‑warning system to disseminate real‑time alerts. Such infrastructure aims to mitigate potential damage and protect lives should a larger event occur.