India: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in northwestern Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Aug. 20

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in northwestern Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory in northwestern India at around 06:45 Aug. 20. The epicenter was about 4 km (2 miles) west of Baramula, India. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 11 km (7 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of northwestern India and northeastern Pakistan. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. Significant damage is unlikely; however, some minor damage is possible close to the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light-to-moderate 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.