Myanmar: A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in southwestern Kachin State Dec. 29

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in southwestern Kachin State at around 23:01 on Dec. 29. The epicenter was about 92 km (57 miles) west-southwest of Myitkyina. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and weak shaking was probably felt throughout parts of northern Myanmar near the epicenter. Light shaking was also likely felt across much of northern Myanmar and parts of far northeastern India and far southwestern China. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; some minor damage to infrastructure is possible near 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.