A 5.3 magnitude earthquake was felt across Islamabad, Lahore, and several areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), causing concern among residents. Although the tremors were noticeable in many cities, there were no immediate reports of significant damage or casualties.
According to Pakistan’s National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC), the earthquake originated at a depth of 174 kilometres, while its epicentre was located in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan. Earthquakes originating from this region are frequently felt in Pakistan due to the area’s active tectonic activity.
The shaking was experienced in several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Swat, Shangla, Buner, Lower Dir, and nearby locations. Residents in Lahore and Islamabad also reported feeling the tremors, prompting many people to leave their homes and offices as a precaution.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) also recorded the seismic event, measuring it at 5.5 magnitude near Jurm, Afghanistan, with a reported depth of 216.7 kilometres. Minor differences in earthquake measurements are common because seismic agencies use different monitoring systems and calculation methods.
This latest earthquake comes just days after another 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck Islamabad, parts of Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. That earlier quake also had its epicenter in the Hindu Kush region and was felt across Rawalpindi, Lahore, Peshawar, Muzaffarabad, Athmuqam, Swat, Shangla, Buner, Chakwal, Jhang, and surrounding areas.
Pakistan remains highly vulnerable to earthquakes because it lies along the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This geological setting frequently produces seismic activity, making preparedness and public awareness essential. The devastating 2005 Kashmir earthquake, which claimed more than 73,000 lives, and the 2021 Harnai earthquake in Balochistan serve as reminders of the country’s seismic risk. Experts continue to encourage citizens to stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and remain prepared for future earthquakes.
