10 Jul 2021 | 11:53 AM UTC
Tajikistan: Magnitude-5.8 earthquake, July 10, results in casualties and damage /update 1
Magnitude-5.8 earthquake in central Tajikistan July 10 results in casualties and damage.
Event
A magnitude-5.8 earthquake occurred in central Tajikistan at around 07:14 July 10. The epicenter was about 160 km (100 miles) east-northeast of Dushanbe. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 17 km (11 miles), and moderate-to-strong shaking likely occurred near the epicenter in central Tajikistan, including in Dushanbe. At least five deaths have been confirmed due to the earthquake, reportedly all in the village of Tojikobod; the earthquake also resulted in damage to buildings and power lines in the surrounding area. At least two aftershocks have been confirmed; further aftershocks are possible in the coming days.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage and enable repairs; sustained disruptions are possible if infrastructure is significantly damaged. Utility outages are likely, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Advice
Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.