A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 struck Tajikistan on Saturday morning, according to the China Earthquake Network Center.

The quake occurred at 8:30 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located near the border between Tajikistan and China. There have been no reports of casualties or damage yet.

Tajikistan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations said it had sent rescue teams to the affected area to assess the situation. The Chinese government has also dispatched a team to the border region to help with relief efforts.

The earthquake was felt in both countries. Residents in the Chinese city of Kashgar reported feeling strong tremors and hearing loud noises.

The quake comes after a series of strong earthquakes that have struck the region in recent weeks. In January, a magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck Tajikistan, killing at least six people and injuring dozens.

The region is prone to seismic activity due to its location on the Eurasian tectonic plate. Earthquakes are not uncommon in the area, but the frequency of large quakes has increased in recent years.

Experts are warning residents to be prepared for aftershocks and to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.