Iran: Earthquake strikes near Tehran December 20

Event

A 5.0-magnitude earthquake struck near Meshkin Dasht, Alborz province, at approximately 23:45 (local time) on Wednesday, December 20. According to the state news service, the quake hit at a depth of 7 km (4.3 mi). Tremors were felt in Tehran, Karaj, Qom, Qazvin, and Arak. There have been no immediate reports of casualties or major damages; aftershocks are possible in the coming hours.

Context

Meshkin Dasht is approximately 32 km (20 mi) southwest of Tehran. Iran is located in a highly active seismic zone and earthquakes are common.

On November 12, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck the Iran-Iraq border, leaving at least 540 people dead in the region and over 8000 injured.

Advice

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