Afghanistan has once again been shaken by a major natural disaster after a powerful earthquake measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale struck late at night, causing widespread devastation and grief across the country. According to official figures, the death toll has now climbed to 1,411, while thousands of families have been directly affected by the catastrophe.
Government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stated that the earthquake inflicted severe damage in several provinces. So far, at least 3,251 people have been reported injured, while more than 8,000 homes have been destroyed or rendered uninhabitable. He added that countless victims have been left without shelter, waiting under the open sky as rescue and relief operations continue.
According to Afghan state media, the worst-hit region was Kunar province, where dozens of villages were wiped out entirely. The quake’s epicenter was recorded near Jalalabad in Nangarhar province, at a depth of 8 kilometers. Panic gripped the region as terrified residents rushed out of their homes, seeking refuge in open spaces.
Reports further revealed that the initial tremor struck at 11:47 p.m. local time, followed by another aftershock measuring 4.5 in magnitude about 20 minutes later, recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers. These repeated shocks intensified fear among already distressed communities.
This tragic earthquake is being described as one of the deadliest natural disasters to hit Afghanistan in recent years. Beyond the staggering loss of lives, the disaster has left lasting impacts on infrastructure, agriculture, and the fragile local economy. Authorities have warned that the death toll could rise further as rescue teams continue to recover bodies from the rubble.
