25 Jan 2023 | 05:03 PM UTC
China: Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in Hotan Prefecture, Xinjiang, at around 00:02 CST Jan. 26
Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in Hotan Prefecture, Xinjiang, China, at 00:02 CST Jan. 26. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred in Hotan Prefecture, Xinjiang, at around 00:02 CST Jan. 26. The epicenter was approximately 146 km (91 miles) south of Hotan, China. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt in parts of Hotan Prefecture as well as parts of northern Ladakh, India. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. 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.
