Magnitude 5.6 quake jolts Islamabad, Swat, surroundings

Islamabad: A 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck Islamabad, Swat, and adjoining areas on Friday evening, sending waves of panic among residents.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, tremors were felt in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, and surrounding regions.

The department reported that the earthquake occurred at 5:15 p.m. on 17 October 2025, with a magnitude of 5.6 on the Richter scale. Its epicentre was located in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan, at a depth of 120 kilometres.

The tremors caused panic, prompting citizens to rush out of their homes and offices, reciting prayers as they did so.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.