An earthquake of magnitude 5.0 on the Richter scale hit Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Bhutan, and China at 8:49 pm Monday evening.

The earthquake of magnitude 5.4 struck India and surrounding countries and the epicentre is in a place called Tangta Khasmahal, West Bengal, subdivision of Kalimpong district in North Bengal and frighteningly shook up the areas nearby. The earthquake struck at 8:49 PM at a depth of 10 km from the surface and felt in the North East, Assam, Bengal, and Bihar also affecting Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Bhutan and China.

Still awaiting more news regarding this.

During an earthquake
1. If inside:
Drop down onto your hands and knees.
Take cover in a safe place and hold on.
If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
If you are in the kitchen, quickly try to turn off the stove, if possible.
Stay away from pictures, windows, light fixtures or anything that could fall and break.
2. If outdoors:
Move into the open, away from buildings, street lights, poles and utility wires.
Get down low and stay there until the shaking stops.
3. If in a moving vehicle:
Stop quickly, and stay in the vehicle.

Move to a clear area away from buildings, trees, utility wires, and overpasses.
Once the shaking has stopped, proceed with caution, avoiding bridges or ramps that might have been damaged by the quake.
If you are in a mountainous area, keep in mind the possibility of landslides and debris flows.

Similarly, if you are on the coast, be aware that tsunamis are often associated with earthquakes.

After an earthquake
Be prepared for aftershocks. Although smaller than the mainshock, aftershocks can cause additional damage and bring weakened structures down. Aftershocks can occur in the first hours, days, weeks or even months after the quake.
Listen to a radio or TV for updated information.
When the shaking stops, look around. If there is a clear path out, leave the building and head for an open area.
Avoid making phone calls except in serious emergencies.
Help injured or trapped people. Do not move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of death or further injury. Call for help.
Stay out of damaged homes, and follow the directions of emergency officials.
Inspect your home:
Check for damage to the walls, roof, foundation, electrical
system and water lines.
Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches or other flammable
liquids immediately.
Leave the house if you smell gas or chemical fumes.
Notify your insurance company if your home is damaged.
Do not return home until officials declare it is safe. If the house presents major structural damages or is partially destroyed, evacuate.

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