On August 2, 2025, a 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck the Hindukush Mountain region in Afghanistan, affecting several areas in Pakistan, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Punjab, and Azad Kashmir.
The National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) reported that the quake occurred at 2:04 AM PST, with a depth of 102 kilometres. Tremors were also felt in Afghanistan and Tajikistan.
The earthquake triggered widespread panic as residents recited verses from their holy books while fleeing their homes. Fortunately, initial assessments reported no casualties or property damage.
The quake jolted multiple districts and cities across Pakistan:
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Peshawar, Swat, Malakand, Nowshera, Charsadda, Karak, Dir, Mardan, Mohmand, Shangla, Hangu, Swabi, Haripur, and Abbottabad.
- Punjab: Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Attock, Taxila, Murree, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sheikhupura, Ferozwala, and Muridke.
- Azad Kashmir: Mirpur and surrounding areas.
Residents in these regions experienced varying intensities, but the deep epicentre likely mitigated severe surface damage.
Read: Pakistan Hit by Third Earthquake in 24 Hours: Magnitude 3.8 Reported
Earthquakes are unpredictable, but preparedness can save lives. Residents in seismic zones like Pakistan should:
- Secure heavy furniture and objects.
- Identify safe spots in homes (under sturdy tables or against interior walls).
- Have an emergency kit with water, food, medications, and important documents.
- Stay informed through reliable sources like NSMC for aftershock warnings.
