Powerful earthquake in Afghanistan leaves 250 dead

A powerful earthquake hit Afghanistan’s Kunar province late last night, leaving at least 250 dead and 500 injured.

According to Afghan media, the quake had a magnitude of 6 and hit the city of Jalalabad at a depth of 8 kilometers. At least five aftershocks, measuring between 4.3 and 5.2, followed soon after, adding to the panic and damage. The Afghan Disaster Management Authority reported that the worst-hit areas were the districts of Nurgal, Sawakai, Watapur, Manogi, and Chapa Dara, where several villages were completely buried under debris. Officials fear that hundreds of people remain trapped beneath the rubble, and the death toll is expected to rise.

Rescue operations are underway with urgent efforts to save lives. Teams from the ministries of defense, interior, and health have reached the affected zones. Helicopters are being used to transport the injured to Nangarhar Regional Hospital, where emergency medical teams are treating survivors. Afghan Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed in a statement that the earthquake caused significant loss of life and property. He said local residents, along with government authorities, are actively engaged in relief and rescue efforts. Additional rescue teams from nearby provinces and Kabul have also been dispatched to speed up operations.

Tremors from the quake were strongly felt in Nangarhar, Laghman, Kabul, and even some areas of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, causing fear among residents. Authorities have urged people to remain cautious, as aftershocks may continue in the coming hours.