Overview
A mild earthquake measuring 4.5 on the Richter scale struck the Karachi region in Pakistan in the early hours of Saturday, according to the National Seismic Monitoring Center (NSMC). The tremor occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers below the surface and was centered near the Karachi metropolitan area. People across several neighborhoods reported feeling the ground shake, with residents describing brief rolling sensations and items rattling inside homes and offices. The event was strong enough to prompt residents to step outside and check their surroundings, though no immediate injuries or major structural damage were reported in official updates.
Event details
According to the NSMC, the quake occurred at 1:59 AM Pakistan Standard Time (PKT). The shallow depth of 10 km means ground shaking can be noticeable over a wide area but often limits the extent of damage when buildings are structurally sound. While tremors were widely felt in Karachi and nearby districts, authorities have not indicated any casualties or significant property losses as of the latest bulletin.
Where it was felt
Residents in several parts of the city and surrounding districts reported feeling the tremor. Some observers noted a swaying sensation inside tall buildings, while others felt a quick jolt on the street. Social media posts and emergency line responses showed a calm but alert public, with many seeking reassurance from local authorities.
Earlier tremor in Malir
In a separate event earlier this week, on August 2, a 3.2-magnitude earthquake struck about 7 kilometers northwest of the Malir area, at a depth of around 10 kilometers, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). While smaller than the Saturday tremor, the earlier quake contributed to public awareness about potential aftershocks in the region and underscored the need for preparedness in dense urban centers.
Impact and safety guidance
As with any moderate seismic event, experts advise residents to remain cautious for aftershocks and to inspect surroundings for hazards once shaking stops. If indoors, people should Drop, Cover, and Hold On, then move away from unstable ceilings or chimneys. Outdoors, it is best to stand in an open area away from buildings and utility lines. Check on neighbors, especially children and the elderly, and report any injuries to local emergency services. Stay tuned to NSMC and PMD for updates on aftershocks, and follow guidance from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) regarding safety and preparedness.
Monitoring and what to expect
Pakistan maintains a growing network of seismic sensors designed to detect and analyze earthquakes quickly. The NSMC continues to monitor activity in the Karachi region and wider province, ready to issue alerts if aftershocks occur or if any significant changes in seismic patterns are detected. While a 4.5-magnitude event is noteworthy, urban resilience—built around updated codes, emergency planning, and rapid response frameworks—helps minimize risk to life and property when authorities respond promptly.
Understanding the numbers
Magnitude provides a scale for the energy released by an earthquake, while depth indicates how deep the quake originated beneath the Earth’s surface. A 4.5-quake at a depth of 10 km is considered moderate and typically causes light to moderate shaking near the epicenter. In megacities such as Karachi, the impact depends greatly on building design, distance from the epicenter, and local soil conditions. Residents should interpret these figures as indicators of potential shaking intensity rather than a forecast of damage, and remain cautious as aftershocks can occur in the hours or days following the initial event.
