China: A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in western Xinjiang Region at around 18:57 Arpil 10

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in the western Xinjiang Region at around 18:57 CST April 10. The epicenter was about 46 km (29 miles) west-northwest of Kuqa. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of the western Xinjiang Region in China, far southeastern Kazakhstan, and far eastern Kyrgyzstan. 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.