Iran: Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in Hormozgan Province at around 11:52 Oct. 17

Event

A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred in central Hormozgan Province at around 11:52 Oct. 17. The epicenter was about 59 km (37 miles) north-northwest of Bandar Abbas. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt near the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout most of Hormozgan, southeastern Fars, and southwestern Kerman provinces in Iran, far northern United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Musandam Governorate in Oman. The tremor was likely an aftershock following previous earthquakes registering magnitude-5.1 and 5.5 in the same area at 08:29 and 08:40 Oct. 17. There has been no official confirmation of damage or casualties following the previous quakes; however, damage assessments are likely ongoing in the region. Some damage is likely near the epicenter and casualties are possible following the three tremors. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Moderate-to-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

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.