Tajikistan: Magnitude-5.9 earthquake occurs in shared border region at around 12:50 AFT March 23

Event

A magnitude-5.9 earthquake occurred on the Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan border at around 12:50 AFT March 23. The epicenter was about 51 km (32 miles) north-northwest of Novobod, Tajikistan. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 5 km (2 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of the Kygrzstan-Tajikistan border region and southeastern Uzbekistan. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, damage is possible. 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.