ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – A moderate earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale struck northern Pakistan and parts of Afghanistan in the early hours of Saturday, sending tremors through major cities and mountainous regions.
The quake, recorded at 2:03 AM, originated from the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan at a depth of 114km, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department. Despite the widespread tremors, no casualties or damage have been reported so far.
Residents in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Peshawar, Abbottabad, Muzaffarabad, and other surrounding areas were jolted from sleep, with many rushing outdoors in panic. Tremors were also felt across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has confirmed that all district administrations are on alert. Citizens have been advised to remain calm and report any emergencies to helpline 1700.
This marks yet another seismic event in a series of tremors that have hit the region over the past few months, reminding authorities and the public alike of the area’s vulnerability to tectonic activity.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.