Afghanistan, Pakistan: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in eastern Afghanistan close to the Pakistan border Jan. 19

Event

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in Nuristan Province in eastern Afghanistan, close to the border with Pakistan, at around 16:00 Jan. 19. The epicenter was about 47 km (29 miles) east-northeast of Parun. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 96 km (60 miles), and moderate-to-light shaking was probably felt near the epicenter, as well as weak shaking throughout parts of eastern Afghanistan, northern Pakistan, far northwestern India, and southern Tajikistan. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. Minor damage to 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 likely 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.