Bosnia and Herzegovina: Disruptions and response efforts ongoing April 25 following magnitude-5.7 earthquake and several aftershocks near Ljubunje /update 2

Event

Recovery efforts are ongoing after a magnitude-5.7 earthquake occurred in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina at around 23:07 CEST April 22, followed by a number of aftershocks through April 25. The initial earthquake was felt across much of southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as parts of southern Croatia, Montenegro, and into northern Albania. One fatality and two inuries were reported after the earthquake caused a rockslide that struck a home in Stolac. The quake and aftershocks have caused damage to at least 90 buildings in the Berkovici area in the Republic Srpska. Minor damage has also been reported in Ljubinje, Capljina, Lubin, and Mostar.

The epicenter of the initial earthquake was about 14 km (9 miles) north-northeast of Ljubinje. The main earthquake has been followed by several aftershocks over the past three days, including a magnitude-4.3 early April 23 and a magnitude-4.8 early April 24. Local officials in Berkovici have reported that the aftershocks have caused additional damage to buildings already damaged by the initial earthquake, as well as new damage to other buildings.

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.