Guyana: Magnitude-5.7 earthquake occurs near Lethem Jan. 31

Event

A magnitude-5.7 earthquake occurred in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo Region of southwestern Guyana at 1505 Jan. 31. The epicenter was about 83 km (51 miles) southeast of Lethem. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 9.7 km (6 miles) and weak shaking was probably felt in parts of Guyana, Suriname, and Brazil's Roraima State. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, some damage is likely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas.

Advice

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Out of an abundance of caution vacate multistory buildings where shaking was felt. Monitor local media for updates.