Kabul, Afghanistan – A powerful earthquake has struck eastern Afghanistan, resulting in tragic losses. More than 800 people have died, and at least 2,500 others are wounded. Most casualties happened in Kunar province, with neighboring Nangarhar also affected.
The quake hit late Sunday, with a magnitude of 6.0. Its epicenter was just 17 miles from Jalalabad, a city known for its commerce and agriculture. At a depth of only five miles, the earthquake caused severe damage, flattening entire villages. Aftershocks continued into the night, including a significant tremor of 5.2 magnitude that shook buildings as far away as Islamabad, Pakistan.
Residents faced terrifying moments as they dug through rubble, trying to reach loved ones. Many were injured while others, like 40-year-old Muhammad Jalal, sadly recounted the loss of family members. He described the desperate search for help amidst the chaos.
Videos circulating on social media capture the intensity of the scene: people comforting each other, unsure of what will happen next. Dr. Sharafat Zaman, from the Taliban government’s Health Ministry, warned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue. Medical teams are working on the ground to assist those in need.
The U.N. and the Afghan Red Crescent are actively providing emergency support, but challenges remain. The country is already facing a humanitarian crisis, worsened by years of reduced international aid following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. As Homa Nadir, a Red Crescent official, noted, the ongoing disasters feel relentless for the people of Afghanistan.
Historically, Afghanistan has been prone to earthquakes due to its location at the intersection of Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates. Just a year ago, another earthquake struck, claiming over 1,000 lives. The impact on women and children is particularly severe, with statistics showing they make up a significant portion of the casualties.
The recent disaster in Kunar highlights not just the immediate need for aid but also the long-term challenges in rebuilding. As Afghanistan wrestles with both natural disasters and an ongoing crisis, the resilience of its people continues to shine through in times of unimaginable grief.
For continuous updates about relief efforts and further developments, you can follow the U.N. and Afghan Red Crescent’s social media updates and community support initiatives.
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Pakistan, Afghanistan, Earthquake
