Afghanistan Earthquake: 6.3 Magnitude Tremor Kills 7, Injures 150
A significant earthquake, registering a magnitude of 6.3, struck northern Afghanistan in the early hours of Monday morning, according to regional authorities. The epicenter was near Mazar-i-Sharif, a city with a population of approximately 523,000. This seismic event has resulted in at least seven fatalities and approximately 150 injuries.
Details of the Earthquake and Immediate Impact
The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the earthquake occurred at a depth of 28 kilometers near Mazar-i-Sharif. The tremor has led to a state of emergency, with rescue efforts underway. According to Annahar, Samim Joyanda, the spokesperson for the health administration in Samangan, a northern mountainous province near Mazar-i-Sharif, stated that seven deaths and 150 injuries have been reported, with the injured being transferred to health centers. The death toll is based on hospital reports collected as of Monday morning.
The U.S. Geological Survey issued an orange alert through its automated system, known as PAGER, which provides information on the impact of earthquakes. The alert indicated a likelihood of significant human casualties and the potential for a widespread disaster. The agency further noted that previous events of this alert level have necessitated a regional or national response.
Damage and Response
Haji Zaid, a spokesperson for the Balkh region, mentioned that the earthquake damaged part of the holy shrine in Mazar-i-Sharif, specifically the Blue Mosque. The National Disaster Management Authority in the country has announced that reports on the losses and damages will be released later. Social media platforms, such as X, have shared video clips of rescue efforts to save those trapped under the rubble, along with images of debris falling from buildings.
Context and Previous Disasters
This recent event underscores the vulnerability of the region to seismic activity. It’s worth noting that in August, the Taliban, which currently governs Afghanistan, reported that thousands of people were killed and thousands more were injured due to an earthquake and a series of aftershocks. In 2015, a similar earthquake struck northeastern Afghanistan, leading to the deaths of hundreds of people in Afghanistan and neighboring northern Pakistan. Furthermore, in 2023, another earthquake claimed the lives of at least a thousand people.
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