Malaysia: Earthquake hits Sabah (Mount Kinabalu area) March 8

Event

Climbers on Mount Kinabalu rushed down to a safety point in Laban Rata after a 5.2-magnitude earthquake hit Sabah's Ranau area on the evening of Thursday, March 8. There were no reports of any casualties or damage. The earthquake lasted two to three seconds, with tremors felt on the western face of Mount Kinabalu and in Kota Belud, Tamparuli, Kiulu, Penampang, and Papar.

Context

Mount Kinabalu (4095 m; 13,435 ft), a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the highest mountain in Malaysia. In 2015, a 6.1-magnitude earthquake hit Mount Kinabalu, killing 18 people when it triggered a massive landslide. Ranau and many parts of Sabah West Coast were affected.

Advice

Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to be prepared for aftershocks and to adhere 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. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.