It had an estimated moment magnitude of Mw  6.3–6.8 and maximum Medvedev–Sponheuer–Karnik scale intensity of VIII (Damaging).

The slightly oblique convergence occur at a rate of 17 ± 2 mm/yr along the Main Himalayan Thrust while the nearby Karakoram fault system accommodates right-lateral strike-slip movement at 5 ± 2 mm/yr.

[1] The high convergence rate means many of the plate boundary faults are accommodating strain while locked, frequently releasing them in moderate-sized earthquakes, and sometimes in very large events.

The region has hosted many large and destructive earthquakes since the beginning of records in 2082–2041 BCE.

[2] The earthquake was associated with a rupture on a shallow thrust fault, part of the Himalaya convergent boundary.

The 40 km (25 mi) long Balapur Fault dips northeast at a steep angle of 60°.

Heavy damage and great losses occurred due to the poor quality of homes.

[5] Liquefaction events including sand boils and fissures occurred on the banks of the Jhelum River at Pattan.