Devastating Manjil–Rudbar Earthquake Strikes Iran
June 20th, 1990
June 20th, 1990

How Long Ago?
34 years, 8 months, 23 days ago
Location
Manjil, Rudbar, Iran
Category
Natural Disasters
Links & References
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Devastating Manjil–Rudbar Earthquake Strikes Iran
A powerful earthquake, measuring 7.4 Mw, struck northern Iran, particularly affecting the Manjil and Rudbar regions, causing immense destruction and loss of life. The quake registered a maximum Mercalli intensity of X (Extreme) and resulted in the deaths of approximately 35,000 to 50,000 people, with injuries ranging from 60,000 to 105,000. Buildings were obliterated, leaving many homeless and in need of urgent relief. The event has become one of the deadliest earthquakes in Iranian history.
Magnitude: 7.4 Mw, affected northern Iran.
Estimated fatalities: 35,000 to 50,000 victims.
Widespread destruction of towns and infrastructure.
Prompted improvements in earthquake safety regulations.
What Happened?
The Manjil–Rudbar earthquake, which registered a magnitude of 7.4 Mw, occurred in northern Iran, primarily impacting the provinces of Gilan and Zanjan. This catastrophic seismic event struck on June 20, resulting in widespread devastation across the region. The earthquake’s maximum intensity was measured at X on the Mercalli scale, indicating extreme effects, including high building collapse rates and significant surface faulting. The deadly quake occurred in a densely populated area, exacerbating its toll on human life and infrastructure.
Casualty estimates ranged significantly, with reports indicating that between 35,000 to 50,000 people lost their lives due to the disaster, along with a staggering 60,000 to 105,000 others sustaining injuries. Over 300,000 individuals were rendered homeless as entire towns and villages were reduced to rubble. The Iranian government, along with various international organizations, mobilized rescue and relief efforts, but access to affected areas proved challenging due to damaged infrastructure.
The aftermath revealed the immense need for improved building codes and preparedness plans for future earthquakes, leading to a national recognition of the need to enhance seismic safety standards in construction. The quake also prompted discussions on urban planning and disaster response strategies in a country that sits on several major fault lines, making it susceptible to such natural disasters.
Why Does it Matter?
The Manjil–Rudbar earthquake remains one of the deadliest in Iran's history and highlighted the country’s vulnerability to seismic activity. Following the disaster, there was a significant push toward improving earthquake preparedness, building codes, and emergency response measures in Iran. This event profoundly influenced public policy and urban planning in a nation known for its geological instability.
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