Strong tremors originating from Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush region were felt across Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Kashmir, prompting residents to rush outdoors.
A 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck parts of Pakistan on Saturday evening, with tremors felt across Islamabad and numerous cities in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The earthquake caused panic among residents, many of whom rushed out of homes, offices, and commercial buildings as the ground shook.
The tremors were experienced in the federal capital Islamabad and surrounding areas, while residents in Lahore also reported noticeable shaking. The earthquake was likewise felt in Rawalpindi, Mianwali, Chakwal, and Jhang, where people temporarily evacuated buildings as a precaution.
The seismic activity extended across several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Strong tremors were reported in Shangla and Buner, while residents in Mardan, Charsadda, Swat, Swabi, Kohat, Karak, Malakand, Bajaur, Hangu, Lower Dir, South Waziristan, Wana, and Diamer also experienced the earthquake.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, tremors were felt in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and nearby regions, adding to the widespread impact of the earthquake across northern Pakistan. Initial reports indicated that the shaking lasted for several seconds, prompting people to gather in open spaces until the tremors subsided.
According to the Seismological Center, the earthquake measured 5.9 on the Richter scale. The quake originated at a depth of 178 kilometers, with its epicenter located in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan, a seismically active area known for generating deep earthquakes that are frequently felt across Pakistan and neighboring countries.
The earthquake occurred at approximately 6:35 p.m., and its considerable depth allowed the tremors to be felt across a wide geographical area. Deep-focus earthquakes originating in the Hindu Kush region are common and often result in widespread shaking despite being centered outside Pakistan.
As of the latest reports, there were no immediate confirmations of casualties or major property damage. Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the situation while relevant disaster management agencies remain alert for any aftershocks or emergency developments.
Residents have been advised to stay calm, follow official updates, and observe safety precautions in the event of further seismic activity.
