Powerful 6.3-Magnitude Earthquake Devastates Northern Afghanistan — Dozens Dead, Hundreds Injured

A Sudden Jolt in the Heart of Afghanistan

A powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.3 struck northern Afghanistan early today, shaking large parts of the country and sending tremors across neighboring regions, including Pakistan. The epicenter was near Mazar-e-Sharif in Samangan Province, a region already vulnerable to seismic activity.

According to early reports from BBC, The New York Times, and Reuters, at least 20 people have been killed, and over 300 have been injured. Rescue operations are underway as emergency teams scramble to reach the worst-affected areas.

Human Toll: Lives Lost and Homes Destroyed

The quake’s intensity left behind widespread destruction. Reports from Al Jazeera and NDTV suggest that dozens of buildings and homes have collapsed, particularly in rural areas where structures are fragile and rescue access is limited.

Hospitals in Mazar-e-Sharif and Samangan are overflowing with injured civilians. Medical teams are operating in challenging conditions, with limited supplies and power cuts caused by the tremors.

“We felt the ground shake violently. Walls cracked, and people ran out in fear,” said a resident of Samangan, describing the terrifying moments that unfolded.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is monitoring the situation, and international aid organizations are preparing relief efforts.

Blue Mosque and Heritage Sites Affected

One of Afghanistan’s most iconic landmarks, the Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif, was reportedly surrounded by rubble, according to CNN and Reuters. Fortunately, the mosque structure itself remains intact, though nearby shops and homes have been damaged.

This ancient religious and cultural site, visited by thousands every week, symbolizes Afghanistan’s resilience—and now stands amid scenes of devastation.

Global and Regional Tremors Felt

The earthquake’s shockwaves were felt across Pakistan, especially in Peshawar, Islamabad, and parts of Punjab. People rushed out of their homes in panic as buildings swayed. According to Hindustan Times, the tremors were also recorded in parts of India’s northern region, including Jammu and Kashmir.

Why Is Afghanistan So Prone to Earthquakes?

Experts have repeatedly warned about Afghanistan’s high seismic vulnerability. The country lies at the collision boundary of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world.

According to The Indian Express and Reuters, the Hindu Kush mountain range is a seismic hotspot, frequently generating quakes between magnitude 4.5 to 7.5. Many Afghan structures are not built to withstand strong tremors, increasing the risk of casualties even during moderate quakes.

Over the past five years, Afghanistan and Pakistan have faced a series of deadly earthquakes, including one in October 2023 that killed over 2,000 people in Herat province.

Relief Efforts and International Response

Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government has appealed for international assistance. Local authorities have deployed emergency services to Samangan, Balkh, and Baghlan provinces.

According to Press Trust of India, medical camps and temporary shelters have been set up for displaced residents. Red Crescent teams are providing first aid and food supplies, while UN agencies are assessing the extent of damage.

India, Pakistan, and Turkey have expressed solidarity with the Afghan people, offering aid and rescue support.

Second Earthquake Adds to Fear

Adding to the crisis, a second 6.3-magnitude earthquake reportedly struck the same region within hours, as confirmed by Zee News and Mid-Day. The twin quakes have intensified panic, with thousands spending the night outdoors fearing aftershocks.

“The ground wouldn’t stop moving—it felt endless,” a survivor in Mazar-e-Sharif told ThePrint.

A Nation in Pain, A World Watching

Afghanistan’s humanitarian situation was already fragile due to economic instability, conflict, and recent floods. This earthquake has further deepened the crisis, leaving communities without shelter, food, or medical aid.

As daylight reveals the full extent of destruction, global organizations and neighboring nations are being urged to step up with rescue equipment, emergency funds, and field hospitals.

Conclusion: Rebuilding Hope Amid Rubble

The 6.3-magnitude earthquake that struck northern Afghanistan today is yet another reminder of the country’s vulnerability and resilience. While the loss of lives is deeply tragic, the swift response of local and international agencies offers a glimmer of hope.

In the coming days, Afghanistan’s focus will shift to rebuilding homes, healing the wounded, and restoring hope to communities that have once again faced nature’s fury.