21 Oct 2023 | 06:52 AM UTC
Oman: Magnitude-4.8 offshore earthquake occurs in Gulf of Oman, east of Sur, Ash Sharqiyah South Governorate, at around 10:00 Oct. 21
Magnitude-4.8 offshore earthquake occurs east of Sur, Oman, at 10:00 Oct. 21. No immediate reports of damage, casualties.
Event
A magnitude-4.8 offshore earthquake occurred in the Gulf of Oman at around 10:00 Oct. 21. The epicenter was about 35 km (22 miles) east of Sur, Ash Sharqiyah South Governorate. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout eastern and southern parts of the country. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
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.
