5.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Northern Pakistan, No Casualties Reported

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — A 5.5-magnitude earthquake rattled northern Pakistan on April 12, 2025, at 12:31 PM Pakistan Standard Time, sending residents in Rawalpindi and Islamabad rushing outdoors. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of injuries or significant damage.

The earthquake’s epicenter was located 60 kilometers northwest of Rawalpindi, at a depth of 12 kilometers, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). Tremors were reportedly felt in surrounding districts, including Attock, Chakwal, and Mianwali, as well as parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Experts note that Pakistan’s geographical location places it on the boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it susceptible to seismic activity. The northern and western areas of the country feature mountain ranges, including the Himalayas and Karakoram, which heighten the risk of earthquakes.

The PMD issued a statement providing details of the quake shortly after it struck. Residents experienced shaking for a brief period, leading many to gather outside for safety. Eyewitnesses in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi described people emerging from buildings with expressions of concern, but thankfully, emergency teams have indicated no structural failures in major infrastructure.

Pakistan has experienced several notable earthquakes in its history, with the most catastrophic being the 2005 Kashmir earthquake, which caused significant loss of life and destruction. The country has seen relatively minor quakes recently; however, experts maintain that these tremors continually release built-up energy in tectonic plates and should not be disregarded.

The Pakistan Army has been put on alert, and local authorities are advising citizens to remain vigilant, especially following their experiences of prior seismic events.

Emergency services are currently conducting assessments to ensure the safety of the affected areas, and residents are being encouraged to report any damages experienced.