Zimbabwe, Zambia: Magnitude-4.8 earthquake occurs near the Zimbabwe-Zambian border at around 11:14 CAT May 24

Event

A magnitude-4.8 earthquake occurred in northern Matabeleland North province in Zimbabwe, close to Lake Kariba and the Zambian border, at around 11:14 CAT May 24. The epicenter was about 16 km (10 miles) east-southeast of Binga, Zimbabwe. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of northern Matabeleland North, northern Midlands, and northwest Mashonaland West provinces in Zimbabwe, as well as southern and central Southern Province in Zambia. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, although the quake was relatively moderate in intensity, quakes of this magnitude are uncommon in the region. Therefore buildings are generally not designed to withstand seismic activity and minor damage to some rudimentary infrastructure is possible near the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are possible over the coming days.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

Advice

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.