A moderate magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck northwest China on Monday, according to the United States Geological Survey.
The quake struck at 11:59 p.m. China time, agency data shows.
As seismologists review the available data, they may revise the earthquake's reported magnitude. Additional information gathered about the earthquake could also prompt USGS scientists to update the shaking severity map.
Aftershocks in the region
An aftershock is usually a smaller earthquake that follows a larger earthquake in the same area. Aftershocks are typically minor adjustments along the portion of a fault that was displaced at the time of the initial earthquake.
Earthquakes and aftershocks within 100 miles
Aftershocks can occur days, weeks or even years after the initial earthquake. These events may be of equal or greater magnitude than the original earthquake and may continue to impact already damaged sites.
Source: United States Geological Survey | Notes: Shaking categories are based on the modified Mercalli intensity scale. When aftershock data is available, corresponding maps and charts include earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. All times mentioned above are for Chinese time. Shake data as of Monday, December 18th at 12:15 p.m. Eastern Time. Aftershock data is as of Monday, December 18, 3:59 p.m. Eastern Time.