A 4.8-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Nyamagabe, Felt Even in Kigali
On November 17, 2025 at around 3:12 PM local time, a moderate earthquake with a magnitude of 4.8 struck in Gatare Sector, Nyamagabe District, according to the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB). The tremor was not only felt locally but also echoed into other parts of the country, including Kigali.
Seismologists at RMB explained that earthquakes of this magnitude can cause minor shaking: windows may rattle, household items may vibrate, and lightweight furnishings could shift. Although buildings are unlikely to suffer major structural damage, older buildings or those with weaker foundations may experience superficial cracks.
Such a quake can also trigger small landslides in mountainous terrain, while delicate objects like plates or glassware might fall. People indoors may describe the sensation as if a heavy vehicle were passing close by.
Experts note that the effects of an earthquake depend on several factors: the location of the epicenter, the strength and depth of the quake, and the construction quality of nearby buildings. Some after-effects may be felt more strongly near the source.
RMB’s history of recent seismic activity shows this is not a one-off event. Earlier in November 2025, another quake measuring 4.2 was recorded in Rwanda’s Western Province. In fact, certain districts—including Nyamagabe itself—are classified among the country’s most earthquake-prone areas.
According to Rwanda’s National Risk Atlas, the western and southwestern regions (including Nyamagabe) are considered at high to moderate seismic risk, largely due to their proximity to the East African Rift.
While no casualties or major damage have been reported so far, authorities and residents are being reminded to stay alert. This event underscores the importance of earthquake preparedness in Rwanda, where the risk may still be underestimated by many.
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