Strong earthquake strikes eastern Afghanistan, resulting in at least 10 fatalities.

A significant earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Sunday, registering a magnitude of 6.0. Initial reports indicate that at least 10 individuals have lost their lives and 20 others sustained injuries as a result of the tremor. The earthquake, which occurred around midnight local time, impacted the Kunar and Nangahar provinces, causing considerable damage across various districts in these mountainous regions. Authorities expect these numbers to rise as damage assessments and rescue operations are ongoing.

The United States Geological Survey reported that the earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 27 kilometers (17 miles) east of Jalalabad in Nangahar province and occurred at a depth of only 8 kilometers (5 miles). Shortly after the initial quake, a secondary tremor with a magnitude of 4.5 was registered near Basawul in Nangahar.

Kamal Hyder, a correspondent for ZezapTV reporting from Lahore, Pakistan, noted that the tremors were felt across a vast area, including provinces in Pakistan such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. Eyewitness accounts from Kunar suggest that entire villages have been significantly affected, with reports indicating that many people remain trapped under debris as rescue operations commence. Local officials have expressed concern about the vulnerable state of homes in the region, which are typically constructed from mud and stone, rendering them ill-equipped to withstand such seismic activity. Many residents were indoors at the time of the quake, heightening the risk of casualties.

Access to Kunar poses challenges even under normal circumstances, and reports indicate that communication networks in the region may be disrupted, complicating rescue efforts. The affected area is recognized for its susceptibility to seismic events due to its location at the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Experts emphasize that the geological makeup, combined with the high population density and mountainous terrain, can lead to devastating landslides following earthquakes.

Historically, the region has faced considerable seismic threats, with a significant earthquake in October 2023 resulting in the tragic loss of over 2,400 lives, as reported by the Taliban administration. The resilience and spirit of the Afghan people in the face of natural disasters continue to inspire those committed to humanitarian efforts, demonstrating the strength of community bonds and the urgent need for comprehensive disaster preparedness.

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