1950 Assam–Tibet earthquake

The 1950 Assam–Tibet earthquake, also known as the Great Assam earthquake, occurred on August 15, 1950, at approximately 5:06 PM local time. With a moment magnitude of 8.6, it remains one of the most powerful earthquakes recorded in history. The epicenter was located near the India-Tibet border, in the northeastern region of India, particularly affecting western Assam and parts of Tibet. The earthquake caused extensive destruction, leading to the loss of thousands of lives and rendering numerous buildings and infrastructure inoperable. In addition to the immediate devastation, it triggered significant landslides and shifts in the landscape, altering river courses and affecting local ecology. The disaster prompted a long-lasting impact on earthquake research and preparedness in the region.