What Happened After a 5.6-Magnitude Earthquake Struck Afghanistan?
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Synopsis
A powerful earthquake struck Afghanistan, causing catastrophic damage and significant loss of life. The recent quake follows a series of tremors that have devastated the region, leading to over 2,200 deaths and thousands injured. The humanitarian crisis is escalating as authorities work to manage the aftermath and provide relief.
Key Takeaways
- 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan on September 5.
- Epicenter located 14 km east of Jalalabad.
- Over 2,200 deaths reported.
- Rescue operations are ongoing.
- Humanitarian crisis is escalating.
Kabul, Sep 5 (NationPress) A 5.6-magnitude earthquake hit Afghanistan, with its epicenter located 14 km east of Jalalabad, the capital city of Nangarhar province, as reported by the US Geological Survey.
The earthquake, which occurred on Thursday at a depth of 10 km, was pinpointed at 34.72 degrees north latitude and 70.79 degrees east longitude, according to Xinhua news agency.
The GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences recorded a higher magnitude of 6.2.
This recent quake follows a series of tremors that have ravaged Nangarhar and the adjacent provinces of Kunar, Laghman, and Nuristan in recent days.
The most devastating earthquake was a 6.0-magnitude quake that struck late Sunday, leading to widespread destruction and a tragic loss of life and property.
Official sources have confirmed that over 2,200 individuals have died and more than 3,600 have suffered injuries, with rescue teams actively working to retrieve bodies from the debris.
The region remains in a state of high alert as local authorities and humanitarian organizations strive to manage the escalating crisis.
The spokesman for the Taliban government, Zabihullah Mujahid, stated in a press conference on Monday that the death toll has risen to at least 800 with over 2,500 injured.
He noted that the majority of casualties occurred in Kunar.
The typical construction in Afghanistan consists of low-rise buildings made predominantly from concrete and brick, with rural homes often built from mud bricks and wood, many of which are inadequately constructed.
Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, emphasized that the earthquake has exacerbated existing humanitarian issues in Afghanistan and called on international donors to assist with relief efforts.
"This adds further death and destruction to the already severe challenges, including drought and the forced return of millions of Afghans from neighboring countries," Grandi posted on X.
He expressed hope that the donor community would readily support relief initiatives.
A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck Afghanistan on October 7, 2023, followed by significant aftershocks.
The Taliban government estimated that around 4,000 people lost their lives in that earthquake, while the UN reported a significantly lower death toll of approximately 1,500. It was the deadliest natural disaster to impact Afghanistan in recent history.
The latest earthquake is expected to greatly amplify the humanitarian needs arising from the 2023 disaster, according to the International Rescue Committee.
Point of View
Our thoughts are with the affected communities. The scale of devastation is overwhelming and highlights the urgent need for international aid and support. The resilience of the Afghan people is commendable, but they cannot face these challenges alone. We must advocate for swift action to address the growing humanitarian crisis.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the magnitude of the recent earthquake in Afghanistan?
The recent earthquake in Afghanistan was recorded at a magnitude of 5.6.
How many people have died as a result of the earthquake?
Official reports indicate that over 2,200 people have lost their lives due to the earthquake.
What areas were most affected by the earthquake?
The earthquake primarily impacted Nangarhar province and neighboring regions such as Kunar, Laghman, and Nuristan.
What humanitarian challenges are exacerbated by this disaster?
The earthquake has intensified existing humanitarian challenges, including drought and the return of displaced Afghans.
What can be done to help those affected by the earthquake?
International aid organizations and donors are urged to support relief efforts to assist those impacted by the earthquake.
