ISLAMABAD: A moderate earthquake struck Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, and its twin city, Rawalpindi, in the early hours of Saturday. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported the tremor at 12:10 AM PST.
The quake registered a magnitude of 5.1 on the Richter scale and had a depth of 10 kilometers. Its epicenter was pinpointed 15 kilometers east-southeast of Rawat, with coordinates 33.45°N latitude and 73.31°E longitude.
Residents Woken by Sudden Tremors
Tremors were felt across Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and nearby regions. Residents described the jolt as sudden but brief, with many waking up and rushing outdoors in panic. No injuries or major damage were reported at the time of this update.
Authorities said the quake was strong enough to shake buildings but not cause structural harm. Emergency response teams remain on standby as a precaution, though no evacuations have been ordered.
Seismic Activity Common in the Region
The Islamabad-Rawalpindi region sits near a major fault line, making it prone to regular seismic events. While Saturday’s tremor did not lead to casualties, experts warn that the risk of stronger earthquakes remains a concern.
The PMD continues to monitor aftershocks and has not ruled out minor seismic movements in the coming hours.
Public Urged to Stay Alert and Prepared
Following the earthquake, PMD advised the public to remain calm but vigilant. Safety recommendations include staying away from weak structures, preparing emergency kits, and reviewing household safety protocols.
Telecommunication services, power, and internet connectivity remained stable throughout the region. No disruptions have been reported in key infrastructure.
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