Iran: 5.3-magnitude earthquake in Kermanshah province April 1

Event

A 5.4-magnitude earthquake rattled western Kermanshah province (near the Iraqi border) on Sunday, April 1. Local news reports claim that 37 people suffered minor injuries, but no fatalities or significant material damages were immediately reported. The earthquake struck at a depth of 8 km. Additional aftershocks are possible in the coming hours and days.

Context

Iran is in a highly active seismic zone where earthquakes are common. Notably, in November 2017, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck near the Iran-Iraq border, leaving at least 620 people dead and thousands of others injured.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected region are advised to be prepared for aftershocks and to adhere 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.