Iran, Iraq: Magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurs in Khuzestan Province, Iran, at around 06:09 IRST Oct. 4 /update 1

Event

A magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurred in Khuzestan Province, Iran, at around 06:09 IRST Oct. 4. The epicenter was about 56 km (35 miles) northeast of Masjed Soleyman, Iran. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and strong to moderate shaking was probably felt throughout northern Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, northeastern Khuzestan, far western Isfahan, and eastern Lorestan provinces in Iran. Moderate to light shaking was probably felt in the rest of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, far northwestern Fars, southern Hamedan, southern Ilam, western Isfahan, Khuzestan, Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, the rest of Lorestan, southern Markazi, and southern Qom provinces in Iran as well as eastern Al-Basrah and Misan governorates in Iraq. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

Authorities have reported at least eight people injured in Kuhrang County in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, Iran, as well as damage to infrastructure and buildings in Chelgard City. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas.

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.

Advice

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.