Nepal earthquake 2015 case study revision

Comprehensive revision resource covering the 2015 Nepal earthquake case study, perfect for teaching and reviewing tectonic hazards and comparing impacts between HICs and LICs.

What's included

• Detailed case study notes covering location, causes, effects and responses
• Student summary task using a 'Give me 5' diagram
• Three exam-style questions with mark schemes and detailed guidance

Available as a downloadable PDF, or as an editable Word document for subscribers.

About the Nepal earthquake case study

This resource focuses on the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Nepal in April 2015. The case study explores how the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates triggered one of the most powerful earthquakes in the region's recent history, making it an excellent example for studying tectonic hazards in LICs.

Revision and exam practice

Students can test their knowledge with carefully crafted exam-style questions that address key assessment objectives. The resource includes questions on comparing HIC/LIC earthquake impacts, immediate responses, and the significance of primary versus secondary effects.

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Nepal 2015 earthquake case study notes

Read on for an overview of this case study, or download our printable resource for the complete set of revision materials and exam practice questions.

Where is Nepal?

• It is located in central Asia, between India and China.
• The epicentre of the earthquake was in the Sindhupalchok district, 60 km north west of the capital city, Kathmandu.

Cause of the earthquake in Nepal

• At 26am on 25 April 2015 a 7.8 magnitude earthquake was triggered as the Indian Plate collided with the Eurasian Plate.
• This is a destructive plate It was the most powerful earthquake there for over 80 years.

Primary effects

• 8,632 people
• Over 23,000 people were
• 1 million people were made
• 26 hospitals were
• 50% of schools were
• The Changu Narayan Temple and the Dharahara Tower were destroyed. These are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Over 500,000 buildings were destroyed or severely damaged.

Secondary effects

• An avalanche was triggered on Mount Everest which swept through the base camp. 19 people were killed, 12 were Sherpas and 7 were
• Landslides were triggered in the Langtang Valley. There was also another avalanche here in which 250 people were killed in the village of Ghodatabela.
• The landslide blocked the Kali Gandaki River which increased the flood risk.
• Harvests were reduced or lost in the following farming.
• There was a short-term loss of tourist revenue.

Immediate responses

• India and China provided international They committed themselves to over $1 billion to help support Nepal.
• The UK sent over 100 search and rescue specialists and medical experts alongside three RAF Chinook helicopters.
• The GIS tool ‘Crisis Mapping’ was used to help coordinate the response.
• The Red Cross sent aid workers and temporary housing was provided in Kathmandu.

Long term responses

• The government of Nepal is trying hard to reduce poverty so that residents can build structures which will withstand earthquakes.
• Earthquake drills are now carried out across Nepal.
• The Asian Development Bank provided up to $200 million for rehabilitation.