Earthquake Report: Northern Pakistan Jolted by 5.2 Magnitude Tremor

Earthquake Report: Northern Pakistan Jolted by 5.2 Magnitude Tremor

An earthquake measuring 5.2 on the Richter scale struck northern Pakistan in the early hours of Friday, November 21, 2025, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). The tremors were recorded at approximately 3:09 AM IST, or 2:39 AM local time, and were felt across several northern regions of the country. The epicentre was located at latitude 36.12°N and longitude 71.51°E, with a depth of 135 kilometers. This places the origin of the quake in a mountainous area near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, a region known for frequent seismic activity due to its complex tectonic setting.

Despite the moderate magnitude, the earthquake’s considerable depth suggests that surface-level damage may be limited. Seismologists explain that deeper earthquakes tend to lose energy before reaching the surface, resulting in less intense ground shaking compared to shallow quakes. However, as of now, there are no confirmed reports of casualties or structural damage, and authorities are continuing to assess the situation.

Pakistan lies within one of the world’s most active seismic zones, where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates collide. This tectonic interaction is responsible for the uplift of the Himalayan range and frequent seismic disturbances across Pakistan, Afghanistan, and northern India. Provinces such as Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan are particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to the plate boundary and underlying fault systems. Even regions like Sindh and Punjab, though less frequently affected, remain at risk.

The geological complexity of northern Pakistan, especially areas like the Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges, contributes to the high seismic hazard. Urban centers in these regions face compounded risks due to dense populations, aging infrastructure, and limited disaster preparedness. These factors can amplify the impact of even moderate earthquakes.

Disaster management agencies are currently monitoring the affected areas and evaluating the need for emergency response. As the situation develops, further updates are expected from local authorities and national seismic monitoring centers.