A moderate earthquake measuring 5.3 on the Richter scale jolted the capital and several other districts across the country on Friday afternoon.

The tremor, which struck at approximately 1:52 pm, triggered widespread panic, particularly among residents in the southwestern coastal region.

The epicenter was pinpointed in the Ashashuni upazila of Satkhira district. Residents in the area reported intense shaking that lasted for several seconds.

In Satkhira, the timing of the quake coincided with Friday prayers, leading to scenes of alarm as thousands of worshippers rushed out of mosques into open spaces.

While the tremors were felt strongly in Dhaka and surrounding districts, there have been no immediate reports of casualties or major structural damage.

Local authorities are currently monitoring the situation in the coastal belt to assess any impact on older buildings or embankments.

The quake serves as a stark reminder of the region's seismic vulnerability, though life began returning to normal shortly after the brief alarm subsided.