19 Mar 2024 | 10:13 PM UTC
Afghanistan, Pakistan: Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs in border region at around 01:57 AFT March 20
Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs in Afghanistan-Pakistan border region at 01:57 AFT March 20. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in the Afghanistan-Pakistan border region at around 01:57 AFT March 20. The epicenter was about 67 km (42 miles) west-northwest of Nushki, Pakistan. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt in areas near the epicenter, with light shaking likely felt in other areas of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border region. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. 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.
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.
