22 Jan 2024 | 06:57 PM UTC
China: Magnitude-7.0 earthquake occurs in western Xinjiang Province at around 02:10 Jan. 23
Magnitude-7.0 earthquake occurs in western Xinjiang Province, China, at around 02:10 Jan. 23. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-7.0 earthquake occurred in western Xinjiang Province, China, at around 02:10 CST Jan. 23. The epicenter was about 126 km (78 miles) south-southeast of Kyzyl-Suu, Kyrgyzstan, and 135 km (84 miles) west-northwest of Aykol, China. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 27 km (17 miles), and moderate-to-strong shaking was probably felt across western Xinjiang Province, parts of eastern Almaty Region in Kazakhstan, and eastern Kyrgyzstan. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are possible 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.
Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.
