MAZAR-E-SHARIF: A strong 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Mazar-e-Sharif early Monday, killing four people and injuring 60 others, Afghan media reported. The quake hit at a depth of 28 kilometers, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). Mazar-e-Sharif, one of Afghanistan’s largest cities, has a population of about 523,000.
The USGS issued an orange alert through its PAGER system, warning that “significant casualties are likely and the disaster is potentially widespread.” The country’s National Disaster Management Authority said it would release detailed reports on casualties and damage later.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Videos shared on X showed rescuers pulling people from rubble and clearing debris from collapsed buildings. Local authorities fear the death toll could rise as reports continue to come in from remote areas. Reuters could not independently verify the extent of the destruction.
CNN reported that authorities are on high alert across northern Afghanistan, anticipating more aftershocks and further damage.
August Quake Among Deadliest in Years
In August, a magnitude 6 earthquake devastated northeastern Afghanistan, killing thousands. The powerful tremors destroyed villages near Jalalabad and left thousands homeless. The Taliban administration confirmed in September that thousands more were injured in the disaster.
Vulnerable Infrastructure Increases Risk
Experts warn Afghanistan remains highly vulnerable to earthquakes due to its location on two major fault lines. Most houses are poorly built with sun-dried bricks or burnt brick masonry and lack strong foundations. These structures often collapse under heavy roofs during seismic activity, worsening casualties.
According to Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, more than 5,400 homes were destroyed in previous quakes, many of which were already weakened.
