China: A magnitude-6.0 earthquake occurs in southwestern Gansu Province at around 23:59 Dec. 18

A magnitude-6.0 earthquake occurred in southwestern Gansu Province close to the border with Qinghai Province at around 23:59 Dec. 18. The epicenter was about [37 km (28 miles) west-northwest of Linxia. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate-to-strong shaking was probably felt in parts of southwestern Gansu and eastern Qinghai provinces close to the epicenter, as well as moderate shaking throughout much of southern Gansu and eastern Qinghai provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, damage is possible in areas close to the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Moderate 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.