Earthquake in Afghanistan Kills Hundreds Amid Mounting Humanitarian Crisis

Devastation in Eastern Provinces

Late on Sunday night, a powerful magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan near the city of Jalalabad, heavily impacting Kunar and Nangarhar provinces. Entire villages—many constructed from fragile mud and stone—collapsed, causing widespread destruction across remote mountainous districts such as Nur Gul, Watpur, Manogi, Chapadare, and Darai Nur. 

Human Toll

Taliban officials report at least 800 people have died and 1,300 to 2,500 were injured, though authorities warn that figures will likely rise as rescuers reach more isolated areas.  In Kunar province alone, more than 600 fatalities and over 1,300 injuries have been confirmed, while Nangarhar has seen dozens of deaths and hundreds hurt. 

Obstacles to Rescue

Rescue efforts face severe challenges. Heavy rainfall and flash floods prior to the quake have swept away roads and bridges, while frequent landslides and rugged terrain obstruct aid delivery and evacuation efforts. Communication networks in these mountainous areas remain disrupted, further complicating relief operations. 

Emergency Response and Aid

Local hospitals are overwhelmed by the influx of injured, with medical personnel working around the clock. Helicopters and search teams have been deployed to the most devastated districts.  International bodies including the UN, alongside governments such as India, China, and Iran, have pledged or are delivering humanitarian aid. 

Long-Term Impacts and Warnings

This quake follows a series of devastating natural disasters—floods in neighboring regions and recurrent earthquakes—exacerbating Afghanistan’s already critical humanitarian crisis. With limited infrastructure and chronic vulnerability due to subsistence housing, disaster cycles like this urgently underscore the need for robust preparedness and external support.