Magnitude 5.7 earthquake jolts Islamabad, parts of KP triggers panic
A magnitude 5.7 earthquake jolted Islamabad and several parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Friday morning, triggering panic among residents who rushed out of their homes and offices.
According to initial reports, strong tremors were felt in the federal capital as well as in various regions of KP, including Chitral and Dir, causing fear and uncertainty among the public.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) confirmed that the magnitude 5.7 earthquake in Islamabad occurred at 10:39am and had a depth of 12 kilometres. The epicentre was located in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan, a seismically active zone known for generating frequent tremors that affect northern Pakistan.
No immediate reports of casualties or property damage were received at the time of filing this report. However, authorities said assessments were ongoing to determine any impact in remote areas.
Residents in affected regions reported feeling prolonged shaking, with many stepping outside as a precaution. Office buildings in Islamabad were briefly evacuated as a safety measure.
Earlier in October, earthquake tremors were reported in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Chitral, Swat and Peshawar, as well as in Gilgit, Abbottabad and several surrounding areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity.
The PMD has advised citizens to remain cautious and follow safety guidelines in case of aftershocks, while rescue and emergency services remain on alert.
