Tajikistan: A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region at around 17:16 Nov. 13

A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred in Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region at around 17:16 Nov. 13. The epicenter was about 127 km (79 miles) north-northeast of Khorog. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 49 km (30 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt near the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of central and eastern Tajikistan, northeastern Afghanistan, southwestern Kyrgyzstan, and far western China. 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.