Central Asia: A magnitude-6.8 earthquake occurred in eastern Tajikistan at around 05:37 TJT Feb. 23. /update 1

Event

A magnitude-6.8 earthquake occurred in eastern Tajikistan at around 05:37 TJT Feb. 23. The epicenter was about 67 km (42 miles) west of Murghob, Tajikistan. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 20 km (12 miles), and very strong shaking was probably felt near the epicenter, with strong to moderate shaking in central and eastern Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region in Tajikistan. Light shaking was probably felt throughout the rest of central and eastern Tajikistan, far western China, far northern Pakistan, far northeastern Afghanistan, and far southern Kyrgyzstan. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is possible. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. A magnitude-5.0 aftershock occurred around 05:55 TJT Feb. 23. Additional 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.