5.3 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Islamabad: A 5.3-magnitude earthquake jolted parts of Pakistan on Wednesday morning, including the capital city, Islamabad, and other regions such as Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and parts of Punjab. The earthquake, which struck at 10:13 AM local time, was centered in the Hindukush mountain range in Afghanistan, approximately 220 kilometers deep, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the quake at a magnitude of 5.1, while the PMD reported it as 5.3. The tremors caused alarm among residents, prompting many to rush out of their homes in fear. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported as of now.
Earthquakes are not uncommon in Pakistan, particularly in the mountainous regions, which are prone to seismic activity. The country was devastated by a powerful earthquake in 2005, which claimed over 74,000 lives.
Following this recent tremor, the authorities have urged the public to remain cautious, while officials are closely monitoring the situation. Despite the fear triggered by the quake, the absence of major damages or casualties brings some relief.
