Powerful 6.3 Magnitude Earthquake Devastates Northern Afghanistan Killing at Least Ten and Injuring Hundreds
MAZAR-E SHARIF — A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck near the northern Afghan city of Mazar-e Sharif early Monday, killing at least 10 people and injuring more than 260, according to local authorities. Officials warned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue.
Quake Strikes Near Mazar-e Sharif
The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake hit 28 kilometers (17.4 miles) deep near Mazar-e Sharif, a city of about 523,000 residents. The tremors shook Balkh and Samangan provinces, toppling buildings and triggering panic among locals.
Samim Joyanda, spokesperson for Samangan’s health department, said, “As of this morning, we recorded seven deaths and around 150 injured people in hospitals.” He noted that updated figures are expected as more reports arrive.
Rescue Efforts Underway
The Taliban Defence Ministry confirmed that Balkh and Samangan suffered the most damage. Rescue and emergency teams reached the affected zones soon after the quake. They began transporting the injured, clearing debris, and assisting families who lost their homes.
Health ministry spokesperson Sharfat Zaman said medical teams are active in the region. “Health workers have arrived, and all nearby hospitals are on standby,” he stated.
USGS Issues Orange Alert
The USGS released an orange-level alert through its PAGER system, indicating that the earthquake could cause significant casualties and widespread damage. Such alerts usually call for a national or regional response.
Afghanistan’s Seismic Vulnerability
Afghanistan sits on two major fault lines, making it one of the most earthquake-prone regions in Asia. In August, a powerful quake in the southeast killed more than 2,200 people and left thousands injured.
Damage to Historical Sites
The quake destroyed part of the Blue Mosque, a famous shrine in Mazar-e Sharif, according to Balkh province spokesperson Haji Zaid. He said the structure suffered “serious damage” during the tremors.
Videos circulating on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) show rescue workers pulling victims from collapsed buildings. Other clips reveal damaged homes, fallen debris, and crowds searching for survivors.
Ongoing Response
Authorities have urged residents to stay alert for aftershocks. Relief agencies continue to distribute aid, set up emergency shelters, and treat the injured in hospitals across northern Afghanistan.
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