Afghanistan: Powerful Earthquake in Northern Region Kills at Least 20, Injures Hundreds

International Desk | PNN

A powerful earthquake struck northern Afghanistan on Sunday night (local time 1:00 a.m., Bangladesh time 2:30 a.m.), near the city of Mazar-i-Sharif. At least 20 people were killed, and over 320 others injured, according to Taliban government sources.

Officials warned that the death toll could rise, as rescue operations are still underway. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.3 and its epicenter was 28 kilometers below the surface.

Taliban spokesperson Haji Zayed reported that many were injured in Sholgara district, south of Mazar-i-Sharif. Most were hurt while jumping from tall buildings. Local residents said that during the quake, many left their homes fearing building collapses.

The earthquake disrupted electricity nationwide, as power connections from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan were damaged, plunging Kabul and many areas into darkness. Additionally, the historic Blue Mosque sustained partial damage. Built in the 15th century, the mosque is sacred to Shia Muslims, as it is believed to be the burial site of Hazrat Ali.

Kabul police spokesperson Khalid Jadran stated, “Police are closely monitoring the situation and assisting with rescue efforts.”

Casualty reports also came from Samangan province, where mountainous terrain has hindered access to some villages.

Earlier in August, a 6.0-magnitude earthquake in eastern Afghanistan killed over 1,000 people. The country lies in an earthquake-prone area, at the junction of Indian and Eurasian tectonic fault lines. Experts note that weak infrastructure, mud houses, and limited communication networks make disaster response in Afghanistan extremely challenging.