A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck northeastern Afghanistan late Sunday night, leaving hundreds feared dead and many more injured. The quake devastated the mountainous Kunar Province, a region known for its rugged terrain, weak infrastructure, and history of natural disasters.
Early reports from the Ministry of Health confirmed at least 30 deaths in one village alone, but officials warn that the true death toll could be much higher.
“The number of casualties is very high,” said Sharafat Zaman, a health ministry spokesperson. “But since the area is remote and hard to reach, our teams are still trying to assess the full extent of the damage.”
Local officials said mud and stone houses collapsed in several districts, trapping residents under the rubble as the midnight tremor hit. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles), making it shallow and more destructive.
Rescue operations were quickly launched, but limited road access and damaged communication lines have made efforts extremely difficult.
“Hundreds of people have been taken to hospitals,” said Najibullah Hanif, head of information in Kunar province. “We expect the number of casualties to rise as more reports come in from remote villages.”
Authorities are also coordinating with bordering regions in Pakistan, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where tremors were felt and homes were damaged.
Afghanistan lies in a seismically active zone, particularly near the Hindu Kush mountain range, where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. This makes it one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the world.
The country, already suffering from economic hardship and political instability, is also one of the least prepared to handle large-scale natural disasters.
In 2024, more than 1,000 people died in western Afghanistan during a series of powerful earthquakes—many in poor rural communities without access to proper rescue or medical care.
The latest quake adds to an already dire humanitarian situation. Afghanistan has faced years of conflict, food insecurity, and health crises, leaving millions vulnerable.
Aid agencies are calling for urgent international support to help with rescue operations, medical supplies, and temporary shelter for thousands left homeless.
Key Facts:
Magnitude: 6.0
Location: Kunar Province, northeastern Afghanistan
Confirmed deaths: At least 30 in one village (expected to rise)
Injured: Hundreds reported
Infrastructure: Homes leveled, roads blocked, hospitals overwhelmed
Rescue status: Ongoing, with major challenges due to remote terrain
With winter approaching and access already limited, time is critical for rescuers to reach trapped survivors. International aid organizations and local teams are working against the clock to prevent further loss of life.
As Afghanistan mourns yet another tragedy, the world watches—once again reminded of how fragile life is in regions where natural disasters meet poverty and conflict.
