A seismic jolt measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale shook various regions of Pakistan on Thursday, as reported by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). The earthquake, originating in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan at a depth of 213km, struck at 2:20 pm local time. Major cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, experienced tremors. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake measured 6.4 in magnitude, with its epicenter located 44km south-southeast of Jurm, Afghanistan.
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Chief meteorologist at PMD, Sardar Sarfaraz, cautioned that aftershocks were anticipated, a common occurrence following significant seismic events. He drew parallels with Japan, which recently experienced aftershocks following a powerful earthquake on January 1. Despite the intensity of the quake, KP Rescue 1122 reported no distress calls or damage reports. This seismic activity follows a 4.6 magnitude earthquake in Quetta and its surroundings last week.
An earthquake originated on 11-01-2024 at 14:20 PST
Mag: 6.0
Depth: 213 km
Lat: 36.16 N
Long: 70.63 E
Epicenter: Hindu Kush Region Afghanistan #Earthquakes— Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) January 11, 2024
Urban Centers Evacuated, No Losses Reported
Residents in Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar reported feeling the tremors, prompting evacuations from homes and offices. Authorities and rescue services are actively assessing the affected areas. As of now, there are no reports of casualties or property damage. This incident recalls the recent earthquake in Quetta and the 5.8 magnitude quake in Islamabad on December 18. The Hindu Kush region, prone to seismic activity, has once again been the epicenter of this earthquake.
Seismic History and Monitoring
Pakistan, situated in a seismically active region, often experiences earthquakes. The National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) confirmed the epicenter of the December 18 earthquake was in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) at a depth of 133 kilometers. The recurrence of such seismic events underscores the importance of effective monitoring and preparedness measures in the region.
In conclusion, while this recent earthquake caused panic and evacuations in major cities, the quick response from authorities and the absence of reported losses highlight the resilience of the affected communities. Ongoing monitoring and preparedness efforts remain crucial for mitigating the impact of seismic events in this seismically active part of the world.