Deep M6.1 earthquake hits Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan
A deep earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.1 hit the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan at 11:39 UTC (16:09 LT) on December 20, 2019. The agency is reporting a depth of 210.2 km (130.6 miles). EMSC is reporting M6.1 at a depth of 214 km (132.9 miles).
The epicenter was located 51 km (31.6 miles) SW of Jurm (population 12 106), 52.1 km (32.3 miles) E of Farkhar (population 10 480), 65.9 km (40.8 miles) S of Fayzabad (population 44 421), 83.8 km (52.0 miles) ESE of Taloqan (population 64 256), and 85.1 km (52.8 miles) SE of Rustaq (population 25 636), Afghanistan.
There are 1 670 000 people living within 100 km (62 miles).
Earthquakes detected in 24 hours to 12:41 UTC on December 20, 2019. Data source: USGS. Image credit: Google, TW/SAM
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 and log construction.
Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides and liquefaction that might have contributed to losses.
Regional seismicity
Featured image: Earthquakes detected in 24 hours to 12:41 UTC on December 20, 2019. Data source: USGS. Image credit: Google, TW/SA
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