Syria: A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs near Salamiyah in Hama Governorate Aug. 16

A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred near Salamiyah in Hama Governorate at around 13:15 EEST Aug. 16. The epicenter was about 4 km (2.5 miles) west of Salamiyah, Hama Governorate. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 7 km (4 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt in Salamiyah and surrounding areas, as well as light shaking throughout parts of central and western Syria, Lebanon, and far southern Turkiye. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; some minor damage is possible in areas close to the epicenter. 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.