2025/11/20

Earthquakes in Iran

Iran is one of the regions with high seismic potential in the world. However, the distribution of earthquakes across the country is not uniform.

Based on the distribution of earthquake epicenters, four zones with high seismic activity can be identified: the folded-thrust belt of the Zagros, the Nayband-Sistan fault zone, Eastern Alborz and Kopet-Dagh, and Western Alborz and Azerbaijan. Adhering to seismic design codes, constructing earthquake-resistant structures, using appropriate building materials, and respecting fault zones can significantly reduce earthquake-related damage.


The largest recent earthquakes in Iran are as follows:


1.     Tabas Earthquake – 16 September 1978 (25 Shahrivar 1357): Magnitude 7.8, casualties: 15,000–25,000


2.     Rudbar-Manjil Earthquake – 21 June 1990 (31 Khordad 1369): Magnitude 7.4, casualties: 37,000


3.     Kermanshah Earthquake – 12 November 2017 (21 Aban 1396): Magnitude 7.3, casualties: 620


4.     Bam Earthquake – 26 December 2003 (5 Dey 1382): Magnitude 6.6, casualties: 26,271

Earthquakes in Iran
EarthquakesIranMashhadGeologyGeoscience
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