Iran: 20 injured during January 6 earthquake in Kermanshah /update 1

Event

A 5.1-magnitude earthquake struck near Sarpol-e Zahab, Kermanshah province, at approximately 18:52 (local time) on Saturday, January 6, injuring at least 20 people. The quake hit 21 km (13 mi) north of Sarpol-e Zahab and was followed by a 4.2-magnitude aftershock on January 7 at 05:31 (local time), resulting in no casualties.

Context

Iran is located in a highly active seismic zone and earthquakes are common. The quake hit near the same area along the Iran-Iraq border as a 7.3-magnitude earthquake on November 12, 2017. At least 540 people were killed and over 8000 were injured.

Advice

Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to monitor the situation, be prepared for further aftershocks, and 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 or in a corner), 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.