Islamabad, adjoining areas jolted by earthquake of magnitude 5.5

ISLAMABAD: A 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck northern Pakistan on Saturday afternoon, with tremors felt across multiple districts and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department.

The quake, occurring at a depth of 12km, had its epicenter 60km northwest of Rawalpindi. Strong tremors were reported in Abbottabad, Swat, Mardan, Mansehra, Neelum Valley, and Rawalakot, while moderate shaking affected Faisalabad, Attock, Mandi Bahauddin, and surrounding areas.

In Swat and adjacent regions, the intensity measured 4.3 on the Richter scale. Residents in Jalalpur Bhattian, Dera Ismail Khan, and parts of Punjab also reported feeling the tremors.

No immediate damage or casualties have been reported. The National Disaster Management Authority has advised citizens to remain cautious, as aftershocks may follow.

This seismic activity comes months after a 6.0-magnitude quake hit similar regions in January, highlighting Pakistan’s vulnerability to tectonic movements.