Agence France-Presse reports a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck across Pakistan, India and Afghanistan:
The quake struck early in the morning almost directly on the dividing line between the Indian and Pakistani controlled zones of Kashmir, triggering landslides and sending terrified residents fleeing into the streets.
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The US Geological Survey and the Pakistan Meteorological Department said the quake measured 7.6 on the Richter Scale, while the Japanese Meteorological Agency put the temblor even higher at 7.8.
The epicenter was around 100 kilometres (62 miles) northeast of Islamabad, according to most agencies, although the Earth Sciences Observatory in the French city of Strasbourg said the epicenter was just inside Indian Kashmir.
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Witnesses in Islamabad said the ground shook for over 30 seconds, rocking buildings and causing widespread panic. A second, less severe jolt lasted about five seconds.
Reuters reports more than 1,000 people might have been killed in the earthquake.
The Associated Press reports Maj. Gen. Shaukat Sultan, the Pakistani army's chief spokesman, called the quake a national tragedy:
"The damage and casualties could be massive and it is a national tragedy," said Maj. Gen. Shaukat Sultan, the Pakistani army's chief spokesman. "The is the worst earthquake in recent times."
More as it becomes available.
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