KHUZDAR: Earthquake tremors were felt in Khuzdar district of Balochistan, with the earthquake measuring 3.2 on the Richter scale, according to the seismological centre.
The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres, while its epicentre was located 75 kilometres northwest of Khuzdar, the centre said.
As the tremors were felt, panic spread among residents, with people in some areas rushing out of their homes and shops. Meanwhile, residents gathered in open spaces while reciting the Kalma Tayyaba.
However, there were no immediate reports of casualties or property damage as a result of the earthquake.
Why Do Earthquakes Occur?
Earthquakes occur primarily because of movements in the Earth’s crust. According to geologists, tectonic plates and large rock formations beneath the Earth’s surface can break, shift or slide under intense pressure, releasing energy that causes the ground to shake.
The point beneath the Earth’s surface where an earthquake originates is known as the focus or hypocentre. The point directly above it on the Earth’s surface is called the epicentre.
Three Types of Seismic Waves
Scientists identify three main types of seismic waves generated by earthquakes: P-waves, S-waves and surface waves. These waves travel outward from the earthquake’s focus in different ways and are responsible for the shaking experienced at the surface.
The extent of damage caused by an earthquake depends largely on its magnitude, depth, distance from populated areas and the local geological conditions. Generally, a shallow earthquake can cause stronger shaking and potentially greater damage near the epicentre than a deeper earthquake of similar magnitude.
