What happened?
A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Sunday night, killing at least 250 people and injuring over 500, Taliban officials reported. The tremor hit 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad, near the Pakistan border, at around 11:47 p.m. local time (3:30 p.m. ET).
Impact on local communities
The earthquake hit a remote, mountainous region, making rescue efforts challenging. In Kunar and Nangarhar provinces, landslides blocked key roads, forcing police and rescue teams to rely on helicopters. Early reports indicated 30 fatalities in a single village, but the final toll is expected to rise as authorities reach scattered settlements.
Aftershocks and ongoing risk
Since the initial quake, at least five aftershocks ranging from magnitude 4.5 to 5.2 have struck the area. Officials warned that continued tremors pose a risk to residents and infrastructure.
Response efforts
The Afghan Public Health Ministry has launched a massive rescue operation, mobilizing hundreds of personnel to assist affected communities. Hundreds of injured have already been admitted to hospitals.
Background context
Jalalabad, with a population of around 300,000, is a key trade city near Pakistan. Most buildings are low-rise, made of concrete, brick, or mud, making them vulnerable to earthquakes. The region also has significant agricultural activity.
Previous disasters
Afghanistan experienced a deadly 6.3-magnitude earthquake on October 7, 2023, which killed thousands and caused widespread destruction.
