Earthquake devastates eastern Afghanistan, killing over 600 and leveling villages

By A Staff Reporter

A powerful earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Sunday night, leaving more than 600 people dead and over 1,300 injured, according to officials of the Taliban government. The tremor, which measured 6.0 in magnitude, caused widespread devastation across villages in Kunar province and parts of neighbouring Nangarhar.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake occurred at 11:47 p.m. local time, with its epicentre located 27 kilometres east-northeast of Jalalabad in Nangarhar province. At a depth of just 8 kilometres, the shallow quake caused severe surface damage, with many mud-brick homes collapsing instantly.

Witnesses described scenes of chaos as residents searched through debris to rescue survivors. Entire communities were flattened, and rescue teams were deployed to provide emergency aid. Authorities warned that the death toll could rise as many people remain trapped under the rubble.