4.9-Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Swat, Chitral and Parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Earthquake tremors were felt across several areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and northern Pakistan early Monday, prompting residents to leave their homes as the ground shook.
The tremors were reported in Swat, Khyber, Shangla, Buner and Chitral, along with surrounding areas.
The earthquake measured 4.9 magnitude, with its epicentre located in Afghanistan near the wider Pakistan-Afghanistan-Tajikistan border region.
Seismic data placed the earthquake at a depth of approximately 220 kilometres, making it a relatively deep event whose tremors could be felt across a broad geographical area.
The earthquake struck shortly before 2am Pakistan time on October 5.
Residents in several affected areas rushed out of their homes after feeling the shaking, with some gathering in open spaces as a precaution.
No deaths, injuries or major structural damage were immediately reported following the earthquake.
The Hindu Kush and neighbouring mountainous regions frequently experience seismic activity, with earthquakes originating in Afghanistan often felt across northern and northwestern Pakistan.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is particularly exposed to such tremors because of its proximity to the seismically active Hindu Kush region.
Pakistan itself lies close to the interaction of major tectonic plates, making earthquakes a recurring natural hazard across several parts of the country.
Monday’s tremor follows a series of smaller and moderate earthquakes recorded around Afghanistan and northern Pakistan in recent weeks.
Authorities continue to monitor seismic activity and assess affected areas for any damage that may emerge after the initial reports.
Residents in earthquake-prone areas are advised to remain alert for possible aftershocks and follow official emergency guidance.
The absence of immediate casualties or significant damage suggests the latest earthquake caused limited physical impact despite being felt across multiple districts.
