16 Feb 2020 | 04:23 PM UTC
Iran: 5.5-magnitude earthquake strikes west of Bandar Abbas February 16
5.5-magnitude earthquake hits west of Bandar Abbas (Hormozgan province) February 16; aftershocks possible over the near term
Event
The US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded a 5.5-magnitude earthquake 52 km (32 mi) west of Bandar Abbas (Hormozgan province) at approximately 01:30 (local time) on Sunday, February 16. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km (6 mi). There were no immediate reports of injuries, though some buildings sustained minor infrastructural damage. No tsunami warnings were immediately issued.
Aftershocks are possible in the affected areas over the coming hours and days.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor the situation and prepare for potential aftershocks.
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), move away from windows, and not attempt to leave a building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.