China: Magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs in southwestern Qinghai Province March 7

A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred in southwestern Qinghai Province at around 18:06 March 7. The epicenter was about 242 km (150 miles) north-northeast of Nagqu, Tibet Autonomous Region. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of western Qinghai Province and northern Tibet Autonomous Region. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and 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.