Informing humanitarians worldwide 24/7 — a service provided by UN OCHA

Bangladesh

Gender in Gender in Humanitarian Action Bangladesh: Situation Brief - Satkhira Earthquake (February 2026)

Attachments

On 27 February 2026, a 5.3–5.4 magnitude earthquake struck Ashashuni Upazila, Satkhira, and was felt across southwestern Bangladesh, including Dhaka, as well as parts of Kolkata, India. The tremor caused widespread panic, particularly during Friday prayers and in high-rise buildings. While no casualties or major structural damage were reported, minor damage and psychological distress were observed.

The earthquake occurred amid a period of heightened seismic activity in the region and exposed vulnerabilities in coastal communities already affected by recurring climate shocks. Women, children, older persons, and people with disabilities faced increased evacuation and protection challenges. The event underscores the need for inclusive, gender-responsive disaster preparedness, improved community awareness, and coordinated resilience efforts in seismic-prone areas.