Srinagar, Feb 2: A magnitude 4.6 earthquake struck near Hanjiwera Bala in north Kashmir early this morning, sending mild tremors across several districts of Jammu & Kashmir and parts of Pakistan. The quake occurred at 5:35 AM, according to preliminary seismic readings.
The epicenter was located around 5 km from Hanjiwera Bala in Baramulla district, a region that frequently experiences moderate seismic activity due to its location in the Himalayan fault zone.
What Happened
- Magnitude: 4.6
- Time: 5:35 AM IST
- Epicenter: Near Hanjiwera Bala, Baramulla
- Affected Regions: Kashmir Valley, northern Pakistan
- Depth: Awaiting confirmation from seismological agencies
Residents in Srinagar, Baramulla, Sopore, Pattan, Budgam, and Ganderbal reported light shaking that lasted a few seconds. Many people stepped outdoors as a precaution, though no panic was reported.
No Damage Reported So Far
Early assessments from local authorities indicate:
- No casualties
- No structural damage
- No disruption to essential services
Disaster management teams are monitoring the situation and collecting field reports from district officials.
Why Kashmir Felt It Strongly
The Kashmir Valley lies in Seismic Zone IV and V, among India’s highest‑risk earthquake zones. Even moderate quakes can be widely felt due to the valley’s soft soil basin and mountainous terrain.
What Authorities Are Saying
Officials have urged residents to:
- Stay calm
- Avoid spreading unverified information
- Follow updates from the National Center for Seismology (NCS) and the J&K Disaster Management Authority
More details will be shared once NCS releases the full seismic report.
Safety Reminder
Even though today’s quake was moderate, experts advise keeping these precautions in mind:
- Identify safe spots at home
- Keep emergency kits accessible
- Avoid standing near windows or weak structures
- Check for cracks in walls or ceilings
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