10 Apr 2024 | 03:34 PM UTC
China: Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs in western Xinjiang Region at around 22:56 April 10
Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs in western Xinjiang Region, China, at around 22:56 April 10. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in western Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region (XUAR) at around 22:56 CST April 10. The epicenter was about 41 km (25 miles) northwest of Kuqa. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 6 km (4 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt near the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of 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, and significant damage is unlikely. The tremor follows a magnitude-5.0 quake in the same region at around 18:57 CST April 10. 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.
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.
