A minor earthquake measuring 3.1 on the Richter scale struck Kosovo in the early morning hours, causing no material damage or serious concern among citizens. While low-magnitude earthquakes generally pose limited risk, seismologists warn that they are a clear indication that the region remains seismically active.
“Based on the seismic hazard map, Kosovo’s territory includes three to four zones with higher seismic activity, while several others are less active. However, every part of Kosovo remains within a seismic zone,” said Shemsi Mustafa, Director of the Kosovo Seismological Institute.
Despite this reality, construction standards in Kosovo remain a serious concern, particularly from a seismic safety perspective. According to experts, many buildings would not withstand even a moderately strong earthquake, largely due to insufficient enforcement of construction regulations.
“During the 1960s, seismic parameters were barely considered in construction. From the 1970s until the late 1990s, seismic standards were included. What is most concerning is construction during the decade following the war, when virtually anyone designed and built structures without proper oversight,” Mustafa warned, as reported by RTK.
Construction and engineering experts emphasize that strict adherence to building standards and intervention in older structures are essential to ensure public safety and reduce risks from stronger earthquakes.
“We remain constantly skeptical and continuously conduct studies, particularly regarding existing and older buildings constructed outside today’s legal and structural codes,” experts noted.
Engineers have also urged Kosovo’s institutions responsible for certifying construction projects to subject structural stability assessments to specialized institutes and relevant faculties, rather than relying on insufficient administrative approvals.
According to seismic assessments, the most earthquake-prone areas in Kosovo include Dukagjini, Prizren, Gjilan, Vitia, Ferizaj, as well as Prishtina and its surroundings, albeit with slightly lower intensity. The strongest recent earthquake in Kosovo, measuring 6.1, was recorded in the Ferizaj–Vitia–Gjilan region.
