It occurred on September 12 at 12:15 PST, affecting the mountainous region of northern Pakistan.

[1] The Hindu Kush mountains of northern Pakistan is the epicenter of intermediate-depth earthquakes with hypocenters up to 300 km (190 mi) beneath the region.

Due to the nonexistent communication system in the area, news of the earthquake did not reach authorities until the following day.

[3] Pakistani authorities intended for a team of doctors and mule to carry relief supplies to the area, but due to slow progress hampered by inaccessibility, the plan was called off 14 hours later.

Despite the swift response by authorities, a lack of funds meant additional resources could not be obtained for survivors.