Islamabad, May 18, 2025: A moderate earthquake in Swat measuring 4.7 magnitude rattled the district and surrounding areas on Sunday, triggering brief panic among residents.
The tremors, though strongly felt in places like Mingora, did not result in any reported casualties or damage, according to officials.
The National Seismological Centre reported that the earthquake struck at a depth of 205 kilometers, with its epicentre pinpointed in the Hindu Kush Mountain range—a known seismic hotspot that spans northern Pakistan and parts of Afghanistan.
These deep earthquakes, while widely felt, typically cause less surface damage due to their depth.
Residents in key towns across Swat, particularly Mingora and its outskirts, experienced noticeable shaking, prompting many to rush outdoors in fear.
“We felt a strong jolt for a few seconds, and everyone in the market ran outside,” shared Saeed Khan, a local shopkeeper.
Earthquakes are not uncommon in this region. In fact, the Hindu Kush zone is among the most tectonically active in South Asia.
Seismologists often link these quakes to the ongoing collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, which has historically produced powerful quakes, including the devastating 2005 earthquake in northern Pakistan.
Read More: Earthquake Shakes Kalat and Nearby Areas
Local authorities swiftly assessed the situation and confirmed there were no immediate reports of structural damage or injuries.
“Thankfully, there has been no destruction reported as of now, but we are continuing to monitor remote areas for any delayed reports,” said a spokesperson from Swat’s disaster management department.
