China: A magnitude-5.7 earthquake occurs in south-central Qinghai Province at around 15:44 Jan. 8

A magnitude-5.7 earthquake occurred in south-central Qinghai Province at around 15:44 Jan. 8. The epicenter was about 343 km (213 miles) west of Oula Xiuma. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt in areas close to the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of central and southern Qinghai and northwestern Sichuan provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, 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-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.