Nepal: 4.9-magnitude earthquake strikes Dolakha district December 8

Event

A 4.9-magnitude earthquake rattled Nepal's Dolakha district (Central Development Region) at around 08:20 (local time) on Friday, December 8, according to the US Geological Survey. The epicenter of the earthquake was reported to be near the village of Bulung, roughly 18.7 km (11.6 mi) from Jiri (Central Development Region). No casualties have been immediately reported, per local media reports, and the resulting material damage is yet unclear. Aftershocks are possible in the coming hours in the affected area.

Context

Earthquakes are common in Nepal. A 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck Nepal in 2015, leaving at least 9000 people dead and around 22,000 injured.

Advice

Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to monitor the situation, to be prepared for aftershocks, and to heed to any instructions issued by local authorities.

In the event of aftershocks, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger or on the ground flood. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.