Shaky footage capturing the earthquake in southern Kazakhstan
On July 8, 2025, an earthquake struck the Zhambyl region in southern Kazakhstan, with the epicentre located 126 kilometres east of Taraz and 334 kilometres southwest of Almaty.
While the earthquake was felt across the region, its impact was relatively mild. Initial reports suggested a magnitude of 4.7, but subsequent reports confirmed a magnitude of 6 on the MSK-64 intensity scale in Kulan village, with lesser intensities in other areas such as Taraz (3 points), Merke (5 points), and others.
The earthquake occurred at 2:30 p.m. Astana time, according to the National Scientific Center for Seismological Observations and Research. Another earthquake with a magnitude of 4.1 was reported near Lugovoy.
No casualties or significant damage were immediately reported following the earthquake. The Emergency Ministry of Kazakhstan opened a hotline and confirmed that life support facilities were operating normally.
The intensity of the earthquake varied across different locations. Kulan village experienced the highest intensity of 6 points on the MSK-64 scale, while Taraz, where Jann79, a resident, lives on the 5th floor, felt tremors with an intensity of 3 points.
Jann79 initially mistook the earthquake for a draft, underscoring the brief and somewhat subtle nature of the event. The shock experienced by Jann79 was brief, and the earthquake was not immediately recognizable as such.
An interview with seismologist Tanaatkan Abakanov regarding earthquake prediction is available for those interested in understanding more about the science behind the event.
Overall, while the earthquake was felt across southern Kazakhstan, it did not cause major damage or casualties. The impact was limited, and emergency services were available to address any needs.
The weather in various cities following the earthquake showed clear skies, with no rain or storms reported, possibly due to the focus on disaster response and relief efforts. In Kulan village, where the earthquake resulted in a significant intensity of 6 points, residents who initially mistook the earthquake for a draft might have felt a sense of relief when they realized it was not a sudden change in the weather.
