Tajikistan: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in central Tajikistan at around 08:47 March 22

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in central Tajikistan at around 08:47 March 22. The epicenter was about 26 km (16 miles) northeast of Karakenja, Tajikistan. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of central Tajikistan, southwestern Kyrgyzstan, far eastern Uzbekistan, far northeastern Afghanistan, and far western Xinjiang Region in China. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; 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.