Climate

5.3-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; No Damage Reported

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake struck KP cities including Swat, Mardan & Abbottabad. Epicentre: Hindukush; Depth: 230km.
2025-05-10
5.3-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; No Damage Reported

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake hit several cities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) on Saturday, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) confirmed in a statement.

The tremors were felt in Mardan, Swat, Swabi, Abbottabad, and nearby areas, but no casualties or damage have been reported so far, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA).

The PMD stated that the earthquake originated in the Hindukush region at a depth of 230 kilometers beneath the surface. This region, known for its frequent seismic activity, lies at the convergence of major tectonic plates, making it a hotspot for such events.

PDMA spokesperson Anwar Shahzad told Dawn.com that while the quake caused panic in some regions, the situation remains under control, with no emergency response currently required.

This earthquake follows a series of minor seismic activities in the region. Just last month, a 4.4-magnitude quake was recorded in Swat and nearby areas, also originating from the Hindukush region. On April 12, a 5.5-magnitude quake shook areas around Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with tremors felt in KP as well.

Experts suggest that such low-to-moderate magnitude earthquakes may help release stress along fault lines, potentially reducing the chances of a catastrophic quake. Geological engineer Muhammad Rehan explained that Pakistan sits at the intersection of three major tectonic plates — the Arabian, Eurasian, and Indian — creating five active seismic zones across the country.

Pakistan has experienced over 20 low-intensity tremors since the beginning of February, averaging more than one quake per day. While most have been harmless, authorities continue to monitor seismic patterns closely.

Residents are advised to remain alert but not panic, and follow safety protocols during any future tremors.