Earthquake near lake Baikal

An earthquake measuring between 6-7 on the Richter scale struck the Irkutsk region near Lake Baikal at approximately 1035 local time (0135 UTC) on 27 August 2008. There have been no injury or major damage reports thus far, but mobile, power and Internet connections were shut down following the quake. Some minor damage to area buildings was also reported. Most businesses and stores were closed for approximately one hour, and many local residents are reported to be staying outside for fear of aftershocks.