Strong 5.9-Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Islamabad, Sept. 5:  A powerful earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and various parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) on the night of September 4, 2025, causing widespread panic but no immediate reports of casualties or structural damage.

According to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC), the tremor occurred at 9:56 PM PST. The epicentre was located in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan, a known seismically active area, with the quake originating at a depth of 111 kilometers. The depth and distance helped mitigate potential surface destruction, despite the strong magnitude.

Residents in several cities, including Peshawar, Swat, Abbottabad, and surrounding areas, reported feeling strong and prolonged tremors. Many people rushed out of their homes and buildings in fear as the ground shook for several seconds. Emergency services were placed on high alert as precautionary measures.

Seismologists noted that due to the quake’s intermediate depth, the seismic waves were felt across a vast area but were less likely to cause severe surface-level destruction. Nonetheless, experts advise the public to remain vigilant and follow earthquake preparedness guidelines, especially in regions prone to aftershocks.

Pakistan lies in a tectonically active zone, where the Indian and Eurasian plates meet making the region susceptible to frequent seismic activity. The Hindu Kush region, in particular, is one of the most seismically active areas in the world.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have urged citizens to report any signs of damage or injuries. So far, no formal reports of major destruction have been received.