A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan late Sunday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The epicenter was located approximately 13 miles west-southwest of Khulm, around 230 miles northwest of Kabul, the nation’s capital.
No immediate injuries or damage were reported. However, the USGS classified the event as “orange,” indicating that casualties are likely due to the strength of the quake.
Newsweek reached out to the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority for more information.
Earthquakes above magnitude 6.0 are considered major and can lead to significant damage, injuries, and fatalities.
This earthquake occurred at a depth of roughly 17 miles, making it shallow enough to be strongly felt at the surface, potentially increasing the risk of destruction.
Afghanistan remains highly vulnerable to earthquakes due to:
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Its position on several major fault lines
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Widespread poor-quality housing
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Rugged terrain and limited infrastructure
In recent months, the country has faced multiple deadly earthquakes. In August, thousands were killed, and entire villages were destroyed. Another 6.3-magnitude quake in western Afghanistan in October 2023 caused similar devastation.
What To Know
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The earthquake hit the Hindu Kush region late Sunday into early Monday.
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The Hindu Kush mountain range, spanning Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan, is prone to earthquakes due to its location near the tectonic boundary of the Indian and Eurasian plates.
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Though no damage or injuries have been officially confirmed yet, local authorities are expected to release information soon.
This quake comes only two months after a 6.0-magnitude earthquake devastated eastern Afghanistan, killing thousands, leveling villages, crippling infrastructure, and leaving survivors waiting for aid when the latest quake struck.
What People Are Saying
The Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority told CNN:
“Several provinces of the country were once again shaken by a strong earthquake at around 1 a.m. Significant casualties are likely and the disaster is potentially widespread. Past events with this alert level have required a regional or national response.”
Rahima, a former school teacher, shared:
“I had never experienced such a strong earthquake in my life. I am happy that my house is made of concrete in the city. I don’t know if houses made of mud have survived this earthquake in the outskirts.”
What Happens Next?
Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on possible injuries, fatalities, and structural damage. Seismic activity in the region will be closely observed for aftershocks or additional tremors.
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