Karachi, 11 January, 2023 (GNP): A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck the Hindu Kush region, Afghanistan, today at 2:20 pm, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
The earthquake’s tremors were felt across various parts of Pakistan, including Islamabad, Lahore, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The PMD reported that the earthquake occurred at a depth of 213km, with a longitude of 70.63 East and a latitude of 36.16 North.
The US Geological Survey (USGS), using the Moment Magnitude scale, reported the quake’s magnitude as 6.4, with its epicenter located 44km south-southeast of Jurm, Afghanistan.
Sardar Sarfaraz, Chief Meteorologist at PMD, stated that aftershocks could be expected, a common occurrence after major earthquakes. He cited the recent earthquake in Japan, where aftershocks followed a powerful quake on January 1.
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As of now, there have been no distress calls or reports of loss of lives or property damage, according to Bilal Ahmad Faizi, the spokesperson for KP Rescue 1122.
Last week, Quetta and its surrounding areas experienced an earthquake measuring 4.6 on the Richter scale. The tremors prompted residents to evacuate their homes and seek refuge in open spaces. The earthquake’s epicenter was traced back to the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan.
Emergency response teams and relevant authorities are on high alert, closely monitoring the situation and ready to provide assistance if needed. Citizens are advised to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols, including staying in open areas during aftershocks.
