Iran/Iraq: 5.6-magnitude quake on border leaves at least 31 injured Jan. 6

Event

A 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck some 41 km (25 mi) south-southwest of Sarpol-e Zahab (Kermanshah province), near the Iran-Iraq border, on the afternoon (local time) of Sunday, January 6. At least 31 people were injured, according to Iranian state media. Shaking was also notably felt in Baghdad and in the Iraqi provinces of Diyala, Sulaymaniyah, Salah Al-Din, Wasit, and Maysan. Aftershocks are possible on the Iran-Iraq border over the coming hours and days.

Context

The Iran-Iraq border is in a highly active seismic zone and earthquakes are common. Notably, in November 2017 a 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck near the Iran-Iraq border, leaving at least 620 people dead and thousands of others injured.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected regions 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.