A moderate earthquake measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale struck 15 kilometers east-southeast of Rawat, near Rawalpindi and Islamabad, in the early hours of August 3, 2025, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The quake occurred at 00:10 AM PST and had a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, resulting in tremors felt across Punjab, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and the Islamabad Capital Territory.

The tremors were reported in several cities, including Rawalpindi, Gujrat, Jhelum, Nankana Sahib, Jalalpur Bhattian, Wazirabad, Shahkot, Bhalwal, and surrounding areas. The epicenter was located at 33.45°N, 73.31°E, near the Rawat Fault, a geologically active fault line in the Potohar Plateau, which is influenced by the Indian-Eurasian tectonic plate boundary.

According to the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, the maximum shaking intensity reached level V, indicating moderate to strong ground movement. Fortunately, no casualties or property damage were reported at the time of publication, though NDMA and local authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

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Seismic Activity and Expected Aftershocks

The Rawat region lies in a seismically active zone and has a history of frequent small to moderate earthquakes due to its tectonic setting. Experts expect aftershocks up to magnitude 3.0 in the coming days, a typical occurrence following a quake of this size.

Disaster management authorities have advised residents to stay alert, follow earthquake safety protocols, and report any signs of damage or injury to the relevant departments. The shallow depth of the quake contributed to the widespread tremors, though the risk of significant structural damage remains low.

The NDMA emphasized the importance of preparedness and public awareness as part of the country’s ongoing disaster risk reduction efforts.