OCHA Pakistan Flash Update #1 on Balochistan Earthquake Islamabad, 24 September 2013 Media reports indicate at least 45 people have been killed and 100 injured following a powerful earthquake that struck south-west Pakistan today. The epicentre of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake was 120 kilometres south-west of Khuzdar in Balochistan Province at a depth of 10 kilometres. The US Geological Survey measured the earthquake at 7.8. Tremors that began at 16:29 (PST) were felt for two minutes in several cities of Sindh and Balochistan. Reports indicate light tremors were also felt in northern India, Iran, UAE and Oman. Provincial authorities in Balochistan declared an emergency in Awaran District, which is the most affected by the earthquake. At least 45 people were killed when their homes and the building of a school collapsed. Officials said the tremors demolished dozens of mud houses and it was feared that the death toll would increase. District authorities, the police and military are conducting rescue and relief efforts in the affected area. The area is hilly and access to other affected areas is difficult due to infrastructure damage. In addition, there are security concerns in the district. The United Nations and its humanitarian partners stand ready to support the Government’s ongoing relief effort for the people affected by the earthquake and mobilize any international support, if requested. Flash Update #2 will be issued tomorrow, 25 September 2013. ________________________________________________ OCHA Pakistan is on Facebook. Please "like" our page.
Posted on: Tue, 24 Sep 2013 17:42:14 +0000