A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake has resulted in the loss of at least 20 lives and left approximately 300 individuals injured in Afghanistan.
The seismic event occurred at 12:59am local time, about 14 miles west-southwest of Khulm. The US Geological Survey has cautioned that there is a high likelihood of significant casualties and widespread damage due to the quake striking at a depth of 28 kilometers (17 miles).
As per Sharafat Zaman, a representative from the Ministry of Public Health, the death toll stands at 20, with 320 others sustaining injuries. The majority of the injured individuals suffered minor wounds and were discharged from medical facilities after receiving treatment.
In response to the disaster, rescue operations have been initiated in the affected areas, particularly in Balkh and Samangan provinces, where substantial damage is reported. Emergency teams are actively assisting the injured in relocating, while affected households are receiving necessary aid.
Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief spokesperson for the Taliban government, stated that the earthquake impacted regions in Balkh, Samangan, and Baghlan. Relief crews have been dispatched to provide assistance to those in need.
Among the structures affected by the quake is Afghanistan’s renowned Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif. Online footage revealed some bricks falling from its walls, although the overall integrity of the building remains intact.
The Defense Ministry of Afghanistan reported that a rockslide blocked a mountain highway connecting Kabul to Mazar-e-Sharif temporarily. However, the road was cleared later, allowing for the transport of injured individuals to hospitals.
This calamity follows closely on the heels of a recent deadly earthquake in eastern Afghanistan. Immediate aid was dispatched by UN teams on the ground, with a commitment to supporting the affected communities during this challenging time.