4.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Sibi Region Without Casualties

A 4.7-magnitude earthquake struck the Sibi region on Friday, causing widespread panic but no major injuries or damages. Residents fled to open areas for safety. This marks the second earthquake in Balochistan in a week, highlighting the region’s susceptibility to seismic activity.

A 4.7-magnitude earthquake struck the Sibi region on Friday morning, prompting residents in both Sibi town and nearby areas to vacate their homes and seek refuge in open spaces. The tremor, which occurred at approximately 5:40 AM, lasted for around 30 seconds, causing considerable fear among the local populace. The Pakistan Meteorological Department reported the earthquake’s depth as 18 kilometers, with its epicenter located approximately 22 kilometers southeast of Sibi at coordinates 29.34N and 67.93E.

Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of casualties or extensive property damage within Sibi or the surrounding regions. A senior official from the Sibi administration stated, “We have sent survey teams to assess the situation in the affected areas, but fortunately, no one was hurt or killed in the moderate earthquake.” However, minor structural damage was noted, with a few mud houses on the outskirts of Sibi sustaining cracks.

This incident marks the second earthquake to affect Balochistan in a week, following a 5.1-magnitude tremor that struck the Chaman and Qila Abdullah districts on December 28. Sibi’s geographical location near the boundary of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates makes it particularly susceptible to seismic activity. Although earthquakes are not uncommon in this area, their magnitudes and effects can vary significantly, with past events having led to significant damage and loss of life.

The Sibi region is situated within Balochistan, a province in southwestern Pakistan, known for its seismic activity due to the interaction between the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates. This geological characteristic renders the area vulnerable to earthquakes, which can have a range of impacts from minor tremors to significant disasters. Historical data indicate that Balochistan has experienced several severe seismic events that have resulted in infrastructure damage and fatalities. Continuous monitoring by the Pakistan Meteorological Department provides crucial information regarding seismic activities in the region, allowing local administrations to respond promptly to emergencies.

In summary, the Sibi region experienced a 4.7-magnitude earthquake early on Friday, causing residents to evacuate their homes momentarily. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries or catastrophic damage, although some minor structural cracks were observed in dwellings. As the area remains under the threat of seismic activity, continued vigilance and preparedness are essential for the safety of the local population.

Original Source: www.dawn.com