6.3 magnitude earthquake struck scores dead

ON Saturday, a magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck western Afghanistan, resulting in SCORES fatality and numerous injuries, as per officials. They anticipate that the toll could increase due to reports of landslides and building collapses.

The United States Geological Survey reported that the epicenter was 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of Herat, the largest city in the region. This earthquake was followed by five aftershocks with magnitudes of 5.5, 4.7, 6.3, 5.9, and 4.6.

Residents and shopkeepers in Herat evacuated buildings as the earthquakes began, causing 25 injuries and scores death, according to a Taliban government spokesman. Buildings suffered damage, with walls cracking and collapsing.

The National Disaster Management Authority spokesman noted that the initial toll was preliminary and could rise further, particularly in rural and mountainous areas affected by landslides.

The USGS issued a preliminary report stating that hundreds of fatalities were possible, and the disaster had the potential to be widespread, possibly requiring a regional or national level response.

Herat, often considered the cultural capital of Afghanistan, has an estimated population of 1.9 million. The region has experienced previous earthquakes, and Afghanistan is prone to seismic activity, particularly in the Hindu Kush mountain range.

It’s worth noting that Afghanistan is already facing a humanitarian crisis due to the withdrawal of foreign aid following the return of the Taliban to power in 2021.

JKNN