A second powerful earthquake has hit Nepal, just over a fortnight since the original tremor killed over 8,000 people and caused dramatic avalanches on Everest.
The US Geological Survey report that the quake measured 7.3, with its epicentre halfway between Kathmandu and Everest, six mile south of Bahrabise, near Thulo Dhading village. This is just 42 miles west of the well-known mountain town of Namche Bazaar: the last big town on the walking trail to Everest.
This quake, however, was deeper: 11.5 miles compared to 9.3 miles down for the original quake, causing less damage on the surface.
The tremor was felt in northern India and Bangladesh, and In Kathmandu, people ran out of buildings as the ground shook, just after midday.
There have been three previous aftershocks since 25 April, measuring 5.6, 5.5 and 6.2 on the Richter Scale.
The BBC science analysis reports that “It's not quite as big as 25 April, which was more energetic, but a major tremor nonetheless. Since 25 April, the immediate analysis had suggested more activity on the fault was certainly possible because the previous event had not ruptured all the way to the surface. That meant some of the strain built up in the rocks over the years had not all been released. One has to hope that those buildings that were left damaged and precarious the last time have since been felled in subsequent aftershocks, or have been put out of bounds.
“This will limit the casualties this time. But further landslides and avalanches in the mountainous terrain are a persistent risk.”
Four deaths were immediately reported in Chautara, which also suffered the highest death toll last month.
Nepal needs your help
This latest quake just shows, more than ever, that Nepal needs your help. We’re organising a charity auction, with all proceeds going to help Nepal.
Sir Chris Bonington, Doug Scott CBE, Kenton Cool, Alan Hinkes OBE, Andy Cave and Rebecca Stephens MBE have already pledged unique memorabilia from their Everest expeditions.
And leading brands such as Mountain Equipment and Sherpa Adventure Gear are coming on board with plenty of stylish and special items.
BMC President, Rehan Siddiqui said, "Our thoughts are with the Nepalese people as another deadly earthquake hit the country today, with the epicentre just outside Namche Bazar. It is likely that there has been further major damage to buildings and landslides in communities already decimated by the earthquake on 25 April.
"Please do everything you can to support the BMC Nepal Auction which is raising funds for established charities who work with mountain communities in Nepal. Adventurers, celebrities, sportspeople, businesses and the general public are providing experience pledges, memorabilia and items to auction.
The major aid agencies provide immediate assistance but these smaller charities provide long-term assistance to a population which before the earthquakes was already the sixth poorest country in the world. Now, more than ever, Nepalese people need medical facilities, schools and rescue shelters."
WATCH everyday scenes from Namche Bazaar just days before Tuesday's earthquake, in US mountaineer Alan Arnette's blog.
Alan wrote on 7 April:
"The lodges are full of climbers and trekkers. The lodge owners say business is a bit down but still good. My own observations is that the streets are teaming with people, spending money, laughing and seemingly happy to be in the Khumbu."
This article will be updated as we hear news of how Namche Bazaar and surrounding areas have been affected.
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