A strong earthquake on Saturday shook Rawalpindi, Islamabad and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), spreading fear among people who fled their homes and offices reciting prayers.

 

Initial reports indicate that the tremors were also experienced in Attock and Chakwal, where jolts were reported across the region and surrounding areas.

 

In KP, tremors were felt in Peshawar, Mardan, Mohmand and Shabqadar. The tremors were particularly intense in high-rise buildings, prompting occupants to evacuate in panic.

 

As of now, no casualties or property damage have been reported. However, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and assessing any potential impact.

 

According to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC), PMD Islamabad, the earthquake occurred at 12:31 pm, with a magnitude of 5.5 and a depth of 12 kilometres. The epicentre was located 60 kilometres northwest of Rawalpindi, at latitude 33.90 N and longitude 72.66 E.

 

On March 27, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake also jolted Islamabad and parts of KP.