5.4 magnitude earthquake jolts KP, Islamabad and Punjab

A 5.4 magnitude earthquake shook parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, and Punjab on Monday, causing panic among residents.

People rushed out of homes, offices, and shops as strong tremors were felt across several cities.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s National Seismic Monitoring Centre, the earthquake originated in Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush region.

The quake was recorded at a depth of 215 kilometres, with its epicentre located at 36.44° North latitude and 70.70° East longitude.

Tremors were felt in many areas, including Islamabad, Peshawar, Buner, Bajaur, Battagram, Mansehra, Swat, and Abbottabad. In Punjab, shaking was reported in Faisalabad and Khushab, while Dera Ismail Khan in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was also affected.

People said they quickly left buildings as a safety measure when the tremors were felt.

Officials said the earthquake was a deep-focus event due to its 215-kilometre depth. Such earthquakes are often felt over a wide area but usually cause less surface damage.

No casualties or major damage were reported immediately after the quake. Authorities are still monitoring the situation and have advised people to stay alert for possible aftershocks.

The Hindu Kush region is known for frequent seismic activity and often produces earthquakes felt across Pakistan and neighbouring countries.