A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake hit close to Mazar-e Sharif in northern Afghanistan, resulting in at least 20 fatalities, numerous injuries, and significant damage to the renowned Blue Mosque. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the quake’s depth at 28 kilometers near the city, which has a population of around 523,000 residents.
Survivor Mohammad Rahim, from Tashqurghan district near the quake’s center, described the intense shaking lasting about 15 seconds, causing widespread dust that obscured visibility. His mother and brother were trapped in debris but later rescued by a combined effort of rescue workers and locals.
Preliminary data from the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority indicated 20 casualties and 643 injuries, including 25 severe cases. Health Ministry spokesperson Sharfat Zaman confirmed that rescue and medical teams were deployed to the area, with hospitals placed on standby to treat the wounded.
The United Nations mission in Afghanistan and India pledged support for the affected communities. The quake also caused damage to the historic Blue Mosque, a sacred site in Mazar-e Sharif believed to be the burial place of Prophet Mohammad’s cousin and son-in-law.
The earthquake disrupted power supply across the country, impacting Kabul as confirmed by the national electricity provider. Aid organizations expressed concerns over the humanitarian impact, particularly as winter approaches, posing additional challenges for vulnerable populations.
Afghanistan faces heightened seismic risks due to its location on active fault lines. The recent quake adds to the country’s ongoing challenges, including the Taliban administration managing various crises, such as previous natural disasters and reduced international aid.