Russia: A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs near Lake Baikal at around 20:52 Jan. 15

A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred on the eastern shore of Lake Baikal at around 22:52 Jan. 15. The epicenter was about 69 km (43 miles) northwest of Kurumkan, Republic of Buryatia. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt near the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of eastern Irkutsk Oblast and western Republic of Buryatia. 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.