27 Feb 2019 | 05:53 PM UTC
Iran: 4.5-magnitude quake hits Ilam province, leaving 17 injured Feb. 27
4.5-magnitude earthquake hits near town of Abdanan (Ilam province) February 27, leaving 17 people injured
Event
A 4.5-magnitude earthquake struck some 23 km (14 mi) northeast of the town of Abdanan (Ilam province) on the morning (local time) of Wednesday, February 27. The earthquake left at least 17 people injured. Aftershocks are possible in the area over the coming hours and days.
Context
Iran is located in a highly active seismic zone and earthquakes are common. Notably, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck near the Iran-Iraq border in November 2017, leaving at least 620 people dead and thousands of others injured.
Advice
Individuals present in the affected 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.
