Kabul, Sep 01: A powerful 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Sunday, killing more than 500 people, injuring over 1,000, and reducing entire villages in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces to rubble.
The quake, which hit around 11:47 p.m. on August 31, caused massive destruction in Kunar’s Nur Gul, Soki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapa Dara districts. In Nangarhar, at least nine people were confirmed dead. Fragile mud-and-stone homes collapsed, while landslides cut off key access roads, crippling rescue operations.
Taliban authorities have appealed for urgent international aid as rescue teams struggle to reach remote areas amid blocked roads and broken communication lines. Helicopters have been deployed, but officials warn the death toll may rise further.
At Least 21 Killed, Dozens Feared Dead as Strong Earthquake Strikes Afghanistan
The disaster underscores Afghanistan’s vulnerability to recurring quakes, with experts stressing the need for stronger building codes and long-term disaster preparedness to prevent such heavy losses.
