TEHRAN: A series of earthquakes struck areas near Tehran overnight, including a 4.6-magnitude tremor, renewing concerns among experts and residents over the risk of a major earthquake near the Iranian capital.
Nine Tremors Recorded
According to Iranian state media and the country’s seismological centre, at least nine small earthquakes were recorded in the Pardis area east of Tehran. One of the tremors measured 4.6 magnitude and occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres, state media reported. Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB said no casualties or material damage had been reported from the seismic activity, which affected areas between Tehran and Mazandaran province.
Experts Warn of Growing Seismic Concerns
The repeated tremors revived concerns over tectonic pressure building beneath the capital, which lies close to several active fault lines. The earthquakes were recorded near the Mosha fault, one of Iran’s most active seismic zones.
Seismologist Mehdi Zare told Mehr news agency it remained unclear whether the tremors represented a release of accumulated seismic energy or were warning signs of stronger activity ahead. He warned that Tehran’s vulnerability was heightened by dense urban development, heavy population concentration, and limited disaster preparedness. Zare said even relatively small earthquakes could disrupt life in the capital because of fragile infrastructure and traffic congestion, complicating emergency response efforts.
Tehran Located Near Active Fault Lines
Tehran, home to more than 14 million people, sits near several major fault systems including the North Tehran, Mosha, and Rey faults. Iranian experts have repeatedly warned that a major earthquake near the capital could have catastrophic consequences.
Iran is among the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. Memories remain strong of the 2003 Bam earthquake, which killed more than 30,000 people. The overnight tremors have reignited calls for improved building codes, emergency preparedness, and public awareness campaigns in the Tehran region, where many structures remain vulnerable to even moderate shaking.
