Karachi residents were jolted awake once again early Wednesday as fresh tremors in Karachi struck parts of the city, continuing an unusual streak of seismic activity that has now reached 20 earthquakes in 3 days late Sunday. The persistent nature of these mild quakes is raising eyebrows across the scientific community and among the millions living in Pakistan’s largest metropolis.
The most recent quake registered a magnitude of 3.1, with the epicentre pinpointed 10 kilometres east of Malir and a depth of 80 kilometres, according to the Seismic Monitoring Centre at the Pakistan Meteorological Department. This moderate depth is consistent with tectonic activity that typically causes ground shaking without significant damage.
The tremors have been most strongly felt in Quaidabad, Shah Latif Colony, and Cattle Colony, areas that have experienced almost continuous rumblings over the past few days. While no injuries or structural damage have been reported, the psychological toll is undeniable. Fearful residents have been evacuating their homes during the early morning hours, worried that a stronger quake might follow.
Why Is Karachi Shaking?
Experts suggest the rare cluster of earthquakes is the result of shifting tectonic plates and the gradual release of underground stress. This sort of “earthquake swarm” is rare for Karachi, which doesn’t usually sit atop high-risk fault lines. The largest tremor so far was a magnitude 3.6 event, and the smallest, a minor 2.1 shake, still enough to rattle nerves.
Interestingly, the city’s Early Tsunami Warning Centre confirmed that this is the first time in Karachi’s modern recorded history that such a high frequency of tremors has occurred in such a short period. Seismologists are watching the situation closely, though they emphasize that these low-magnitude quakes do not necessarily indicate a major quake is imminent.
Authorities continue to advise caution but urge the public to remain calm. Safety protocols, such as avoiding tall structures and securing heavy furniture, are being circulated through local media.
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