Afghanistan: A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs in Badakhshan Province at around 13:54 Jan. 3

A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred in Badakhshan Province at around 13:54 AFT Jan. 3. The epicenter was about 15 km (9 miles) south of Ishqoshim, Tajikistan. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 125 km (78 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of northeastern Afghanistan, southern Tajikistan, and northern Pakistan. 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.