23 Jul 2018 | 01:30 AM UTC
Iran: Four earthquakes in two days July 22-23 /update 1
5.8-magnitude earthquake in southeast July 23 results in at least 25 people injured, one day after series of earthquakes in southern and western Iran July 22; further quakes, aftershocks possible
Event
A 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck southeast Iran in the early morning hours of Monday, July 23, leaving at least 25 people injured one day after three earthquakes hit southern and western parts of the country. Monday morning's temblor had an epicenter about 37 km (23 mi) to the east of Kerman city.
Sunday's 5.9-magnitude quake in Kermanshah province, near the Iraqi border, left at least 287 people injured; some buildings also suffered structural damage. Earlier in the day, two earthquakes struck southern Hormozgan province, resulting in some material damages but no casualties. Further earthquakes or aftershocks are possible across the country.
Context
Iran is located in a highly active seismic zone and 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 regions 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.
