KHUZDAR: A minor earthquake, measuring 3.3 in magnitude, rattled parts of Khuzdar District in Balochistan in the early hours of Sunday, jolting residents from their sleep and causing a brief wave of panic.
According to initial reports and accounts from local residents, the tremors, though of low intensity, were strong enough to be distinctly felt, prompting many to rush out of their homes in fear. Local sources described scenes of people reciting verses for safety as they gathered outside in the darkness. The panic, while widespread, subsided quickly as the shaking ceased.
Seismic data indicates the epicenter of the quake was located approximately 70 kilometers from the affected areas in Khuzdar. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and local administration confirmed the preliminary magnitude on the Richter scale. A spokesperson for the local administration stated that, fortunately, no immediate reports of casualties or significant property damage have been received so far. However, the administration remains vigilant and has alerted hospitals and emergency services across the district as a standard precautionary measure.
While this tremor did not result in destruction, it served as a stark reminder of the province’s location on active seismic zones. Such events often trigger anxiety among the populace, recalling memories of more devastating quakes in the region’s history. Officials are continuing to monitor the situation and have urged the public to remain calm and follow official updates. The alert status is expected to be lifted pending a full assessment of the situation and confirmation that no aftershocks are expected.
Meanwhile Quetta and surrounding areas experienced their first significant rainfall in 118 days on Saturday, ending a prolonged dry spell and ushering in a sharp drop in temperatures across Balochistan. The intermittent showers, while welcomed by many, brought immediate challenges, including widespread power outages that disrupted daily life.
The rain, which began in Quetta, extended to numerous districts including Gwadar, Kech, Kharan, Chagai, Zhob, and Ziarat. The Meteorological Department reported varying rainfall amounts, with Kalat receiving 13 mm and Quetta itself recording 3 mm. The precipitation has intensified the winter chill, leading to a surge in demand for heating essentials like warm clothes, firewood, and LPG gas.
