India: Magnitude-5.7 earthquake occurs in far northern Himachal Pradesh State Dec. 18

A magnitude-5.7 earthquake occurred in far northern Himachal Pradesh State in northern India at around 15:48 Dec. 18. The epicenter was about 30 km (19 miles) south-southwest of Padam. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 36 km (22 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt in areas near the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of northern India, northeastern Pakistan, and far western China. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. Significant damage is unlikely; however, some minor damage is possible close to the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light-to-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.