Location: Tbilisi, Georgia
Event: News outlets are reporting an earthquake south of Tbilisi.
U.S. citizens are reminded that Georgia is a high-activity seismic zone and experiences frequent earthquakes. While many earthquakes go unnoticed, Tbilisi experienced a fatal 4.5 magnitude earthquake in April 2002 which resulted in multiple deaths and damage to over 12,000 buildings.
If you’re not home during an earthquake:
- * Move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.
- If driving, stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle.
- Avoid stopping your vehicle near or under buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires.
- Be on the lookout for road and bridge damage.
- If the earthquake is severe, do not attempt to cross bridges or overpasses as they may be damaged.
- If power lines have fallen on your vehicle, do not attempt to enter or exit your vehicle.
- If you are in a crowded public building, avoid rushing the doorways, move away from windows and display shelves, DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON.
If you’re home during an earthquake:
- Move under a sturdy piece of furniture and/or nearest to an interior wall.
- Lay flat and cover your head and neck.
- Remember that the triangle of life is the corner where the wall and the floor meet as these areas of shelter provide the most immediate safety.
- If you are close to an exit, please get out and away from buildings.
Actions to Take:
* Monitor local media for updates
* Be aware of your surroundings
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Tbilisi, Georgia
(995)(32) 227-7724 (M-F 8:30-5:30)
(995)(32) 227-7000 (after hours)
AskConsulTbilisi@state.gov
https://ge.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
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