QUETTA – An earthquake of magnitude 4.5 jolted Khuzdar district and surrounding areas of Balochistan on Monday, causing panic among residents.
No casualties or property damage were reported.
The Seismological Centre said that the earthquake was recorded at a depth of 30 kilometres beneath the Earth’s surface.
Tremors were felt in Khuzdar and nearby areas, causing residents to move out of their homes and shops and gather in open spaces as a precautionary measure.
The earthquake lasted briefly but was strong enough to be felt across several localities in and around the district.
The residents rushed outdoors soon after the tremors were felt, while people in markets and commercial areas also moved to safer locations.
There were no immediate reports of loss of life, injuries or damage to buildings and other property following the earthquake.
The local authorities and residents remained alert for possible aftershocks.
Earthquakes are relatively common in parts of Balochistan because the province lies in a seismically active region.
However, the impact of individual tremors varies depending on their magnitude, depth and proximity to populated areas.
The latest earthquake comes weeks after another tremor was recorded in Khuzdar district. On September 5, an earthquake measuring 3.2 on the Richter scale struck the area, according to the Seismological Centre. That earthquake was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometres.
No major damage or casualties were reported in connection with the September 5 tremor either.
The authorities generally advise residents to remain calm during earthquakes, move away from windows and unstable structures, and seek shelter in open and safe areas once the shaking begins.
The residents are also advised to remain cautious after an earthquake because aftershocks may occur.
The further assessments of the latest tremor are expected to determine whether any minor damage has occurred in remote areas of the district.
