Iran: Casualties reported from Dec. 20 earthquake near Tehran /update 1

Event

A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck near Meshkin Dasht, Alborz province, at approximately 23:30 (local time) on Wednesday, December 20. One woman was killed in a panic, while trying to fee her house in the city of Malard. Nearly 100  people were also reportedly injured in the Tehran and Alborz provinces and in the city of Saveh (Markazi province). No damages to buildings or critical infrastructure were reported.

Tremors were felt in Tehran, Karaj, Qom, Qazvin, and Arak.

Context

Meshkin Dasht is approximately 30 km (20 mi) southwest of Tehran.

Iran is located in a highly active seismic zone where earthquakes are common. On November 12, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck near the Iran-Iraq border, killing at least 540 people and injuring over 8000 .

Advice

Individuals present in the affected region are advised to be prepared for aftershocks and heed to any instructions issued by local authorities.

In the event of aftershocks, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.