Mozambique/Zimbabwe: 5.5-magnitude earthquake strikes border Dec. 22

Event

A 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck the border region between Mozambique and Zimbabwe at 07:37 (local time) on Saturday, December 22. The epicenter was located just inside the Mozambican border, 53 km (33 mi) south-southeast of Chipinge (Zimbabwe); the most affected provinces are Manica in Mozambique and Manicaland in Zimbabwe. Tremors were also felt as far away as the Zimbabwean capital Harare. No casualties or major damages have been reported, although information from more remote areas is still emerging. 

Advice

Individuals in the affected regions should monitor the situation, be prepared for further aftershocks, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.

During an earthquake, 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 exterior walls, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from any tall structures, such as buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.