A 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck at approximately 6:35 AM, with tremors felt across several cities in Pakistan, including Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Chakwal, Charsadda, Mianwali, Swat, Karak, and Shangla.
The quake originated in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan at a depth of 178 kilometers, which contributed to the widespread shaking across northern and central Pakistan.
Residents rushed out of homes, offices, and commercial buildings as the tremors lasted for several seconds, causing panic in affected areas.
There have been no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage. Authorities are monitoring the situation and have advised the public to remain calm and follow safety precautions in the event of aftershocks.
A series of earthquakes continues to affect Pakistan. In Balochistan, 5 earthquakes have been recorded since yesterday. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck Barkhan and surrounding areas this morning. The epicenter was located within Barkhan district.
Director of the National Seismic Centre Karachi, Ameer Haider Laghari, said that Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are located on the Eurasian tectonic plate, and the recent earthquakes have occurred along the upper section of this plate.
He explained that the current seismic activity may also be linked to the effects of major earthquakes occurring elsewhere around the world.
According to Laghari, the powerful earthquake that recently struck Venezuela generated seismic energy that is placing stress on connected tectonic plates, potentially triggering earthquakes in different regions.
He added that more earthquakes may continue to occur along the Eurasian plate until the accumulated underground energy is fully released. However, he emphasized that it is not scientifically possible to accurately predict the exact time, location, or magnitude of an earthquake.
Three Earthquakes rattle Balochistan, triggering panic among residents
