Russia: A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs east of the northern Kuril Islands at around 02:02 Aug. 17

Event

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in the northwestern Pacific Ocean east of the northern Kuril Islands at around 02:02 Aug. 17. The epicenter was about 159 km (99 miles) south of Severo-Kuril'sk. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 31 km (19 miles), and light-to-weak shaking was probably felt throughout parts of the northern Kuril islands and the far southern tip of the Kamchatka Peninsula. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. 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.