Magnitude 5.4 earthquake hits Kazakhstan - USGS

    A magnitude 5.4 earthquake was recorded in eastern Kazakhstan on Sunday, the US Geological Survey said.
    The epicentre was 71 km (44 miles) northeast of Kazakhstan's largest city, Almaty, at a depth of 20 km (12.4 miles), the geological survey said on its website, www.usgs.gov.
    Reuters reporters in Almaty felt buildings shake for several seconds, but there were no immediate reports of damage.
    Since the first earthquake of 5.4, 9 weak to moderate aftershocks were recorded, according to Earthquake Report.
    Mr. Tanatkan Abakan, the director of the Institute of Seismology of Kazakhstan told the press that people who are spreading rumors about an upcoming earthquake should be prosecuted.
    Some media have reported that many people left the city or spend hours in the streets fearing a devastating earthquake and due to the late information of the government to counter the rumors.
    The director of the Institute of Seismology also told the press that on the night of 1 to 2 May in Almaty, a strong earthquake was not expected, but that slight aftershocks were possible.
    He added that recent activity shows a decrease in seismic activity. Such a process will still continue for some time, he said, adding that there was no reason to panic, according to Earthquake Report.