A powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck western China near the border with Kyrgyzstan on Tuesday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
According to the agency’s data, the earthquake occurred at 2:09 a.m. Chinese time.
The reported magnitude of the earthquake may be revised as seismologists review available data. Additional information collected about the earthquake could also prompt USGS scientists to update shaking intensity maps.
Aftershocks in this area
Aftershocks are small earthquakes that usually occur after a large earthquake in the same area. Aftershocks are usually small adjustments along parts of the fault that were displaced during the initial earthquake.
Earthquakes and aftershocks within 160 miles
Aftershocks can occur days, weeks, or even years after the initial earthquake. These events can be as large or larger than the initial earthquake and can continue to impact already damaged areas.
Source: U.S. Geological Survey | Note: Shake categories are based on the modified Mercalli intensity scale. When aftershock data is available, the corresponding maps and diagrams include earthquakes within 160 miles and within 7 days of the initial earthquake. All times above are in China time. Shaking data is current as of 1:26 PM ET on Monday, January 22nd. Aftershock data is current as of 2:09pm ET on Monday, January 22nd.