Strong and shallow M6.0 earthquake hits Myanmar, 4.1 million people within 100 km

A strong and shallow earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.0 hit Myanmar at 18:26 UTC on January 11, 2018 (00:56 local time, January 12). The agency is reporting a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). EMSC is reporting the same magnitude and depth. At least three moderately strong aftershocks hit the same area over the next 30 minutes.

According to the USGS, the epicenter was located 37.5 km (23.3 miles) W of Pyu (population 40 386) and 61.7 km (38.3 miles) E of Paungde (population 36 971), Myanmar.

There are 4.1 million people living within 100 km (62 miles) and less than 1 000 within 10 km (6.2 miles).

Some 1 000 people are estimated to have felt strong shaking, 996 000 moderate and 16 214 000 light.

At least 3 M5.3 aftershocks hit the same area over the next 30 minutes.

The USGS issued a green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though resistant structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are adobe block with wood and rubble/field stone masonry construction.

Professor Max Wyss, who specializes in theoretical prognoses of injuries and fatalities expects up to 5 fatalities and up to 30 injured people.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Regional seismicity

Featured image credit: USGS