20 May 2024 | 05:43 AM UTC
China: Magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurs in western Xinjiang Region May 20
Magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurs in western Xinjiang Region, China, at around 13:10 May 20. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurred in western Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region (XUAR) near the border with Kyrgyzstan at around 13:10 May 20. The epicenter was about 116 km (72 miles) northeast of Kashgar, China. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light to moderate shaking was probably felt throughout parts of western XUAR in China and southeastern Kyrgyzstan. 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.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
