A strong Afghanistan earthquake struck the country’s eastern region and killed hundreds of people, who are feared dead, and left numerous others injured. The 6.0 earthquake occurred at a shallow depth late Sunday night and caused buildings to shake as far as Kabul and Islamabad.
Authorities in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces reported at least 20 confirmed dead but warned the number will rise sharply. Most houses made of mud and wood collapsed, burying families beneath the wreckage. Whole villages in isolated mountain valleys are said to have been destroyed.
Rescue efforts hampered by landslides and aftershocks
The earthquake caused landslides that closed winding roads, and it became almost impossible for the rescuers to reach the most affected regions. The injured are being airlifted to hospitals in Kabul and Jalalabad by helicopters. Volunteers came in droves to give blood as hospitals were filled with wounded individuals.
The Taliban regime has begged for immediate international assistance, claiming they do not have sufficient equipment and helicopters. Aftershocks throughout the night compelled individuals to spend the night outdoors in freezing conditions, further exacerbating the agony. Residents claim some villages are accessible only by air or by walking due to ruined roads.
Another tragedy for Afghanistan
This catastrophe follows only days after floods in Kunar and Nangarhar claimed the lives of at least five individuals and displaced hundreds of families. Afghanistan frequently experiences fatal earthquakes since it is located on significant fault lines, yet shoddy buildings and inadequate infrastructure exacerbate the damage significantly.
The UN has cautioned that the death toll could rise to hundreds as soon as the rescuers access isolated regions. For most Afghans who have already been battling hunger and poverty, this earthquake is yet another crushing blow.
FAQs
- Where was the Afghanistan earthquake located?
The quake occurred in eastern Afghanistan, near Jalalabad in the province of Nangarhar, and also impacted Kunar.
- How many people are dead?
A least 20 people have been confirmed dead, but officials and villagers expect the number to be in the hundreds.
- Why is rescue work so challenging?
Floods and landslides have strangled roads, and several villages can only be accessed by air or on foot.
- Is Afghanistan earthquake-prone?
Yes, Afghanistan is located on significant fault lines. Sloppy construction makes quakes particularly lethal.
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