Kolkata Earthquake Today: Latest Updates and School Safety Advisories (February 27, 2026)

On February 27, 2026, residents of Kolkata and surrounding areas in West Bengal experienced strong earthquake tremors around 1:22 PM IST, sparking widespread panic but no immediate reports of major damage or casualties. This event has surged in search trends, with queries like "earthquake in Kolkata today," "Kolkata earthquake magnitude," and "earthquake safety for schools" topping the charts as people seek real-time updates and preparedness tips. In this blog, we'll cover the details of the quake, its impact, and essential advisories for schools to ensure student safety during such seismic events.

What Happened: Details of the Kolkata Earthquake

The earthquake struck with an estimated magnitude ranging from 4.9 to 5.5 on the Richter scale, according to various seismic agencies. The epicenter was located near Satkhira in Bangladesh's Khulna Division, just a few kilometers from the India-Bangladesh border, at a depth of approximately 35 km. Tremors were felt across Kolkata, prompting people to evacuate high-rise buildings, offices, and homes as a precaution.

Preliminary reports from the US Geological Survey (USGS) and the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) confirmed the quake's intensity, with the epicenter about 26 km southeast of Taki in West Bengal. Authorities are monitoring the situation, and citizens have been advised to stay calm and follow official updates.

This quake comes amid a series of seismic activities in the region, including a weaker 2.7 magnitude event earlier today in Sikkim. Eastern India, including West Bengal, falls in a moderate to high-risk seismic zone, making such events not uncommon but always a cause for vigilance.

Impact and Immediate Response

Residents reported feeling "strong" shaking for several seconds, leading to panic in crowded areas like marketplaces and residential complexes. No major structural damage or injuries have been reported so far, but the event has heightened awareness about earthquake preparedness in urban centers like Kolkata.

Social media buzzed with accounts of the tremors, with users sharing videos and experiences, aligning with rising search trends for "West Bengal earthquake update" and "Bangladesh earthquake impact on India." The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and National Center for Seismology (NCS) are providing ongoing updates, emphasizing the need for calm and adherence to safety protocols.

Earthquake Safety Advisories for Schools

Schools are particularly vulnerable during earthquakes, as they house large numbers of children who may not react quickly without guidance. Based on guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and other experts, here are key advisories and care measures for schools in India, especially relevant in seismic zones like West Bengal.

1. Pre-Earthquake Preparedness

• Develop a School Disaster Management Plan: Every school should have an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, assembly points in open spaces away from buildings, and roles for teachers and staff. This plan should be reviewed annually and shared with parents.
• Identify Safe Spots: Teach students to recognize safe areas in classrooms, such as under sturdy desks or tables, away from windows, shelves, and heavy objects that could fall.
• Conduct Regular Drills: Practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" drills at least twice a year. During the drill, students should drop to the ground, take cover under a desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.

2. During the Earthquake

• Stay Calm and Act Quickly: Instruct students to avoid running or using elevators. If indoors, drop, cover, and hold on. If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
• Teacher Responsibilities: Teachers should lead by example, ensure all students are accounted for, and assist those with disabilities.

3. Post-Earthquake Measures

• Evacuate Safely: After the shaking stops, evacuate in an orderly manner to the designated assembly point. Check for injuries and provide first aid using school emergency kits.
• Communicate with Parents: Update parents via SMS or apps about student safety and pickup procedures.
• Structural Checks: Inspect school buildings for damage before re-entry, and consider retrofitting for future resilience.

Incorporating these measures can significantly reduce risks, as emphasized by programs like the National School Safety Programme.

Conclusion

The February 27, 2026, Kolkata earthquake serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness in India's seismic-prone regions. While no major harm was reported this time, staying informed and practicing safety protocols can save lives. For schools, integrating earthquake education into the curriculum and conducting drills is crucial. Follow official sources like NDMA and NCS for updates, and remember: preparation is key to resilience.

Stay safe, Kolkata! For more on earthquake trends and safety, check back for updates.