A powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake that struck Afghanistan on Monday (1st September) killing 600 people, with officials confirming at least 1,500 injuries. Rescue teams are racing against time to locate survivors buried under debris and rubble. Officials fear the numbers will continue to rise as teams work through challenging conditions to reach isolated villages.
Initially, officials reported around 250 deaths, but the number rose sharply to 500 according to state broadcaster Radio Television Afghanistan (RTA). The Taliban-run Interior Ministry has now confirmed at least 622 fatalities, with authorities warning that the figure may increase as search operations continue.
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake’s epicenter was near Jalalabad in Nangarhar province. It was followed by a 4.7-magnitude aftershock at a depth of about 140 km, close to the site of the initial tremor. Reports confirmed that tremors were also felt in neighboring Pakistan.
Roadblocks Hamper Rescue Operations
Health ministry spokesperson Sharafat Zaman said rescue workers are facing significant challenges due to the remote, mountainous terrain. “The number of casualties and injuries is high, but the area is difficult to access. The roads are unpaved and now covered with rocks because of the earthquake. Authorities are struggling to carry out rescue missions, especially as most homes in the affected areas were made of mud and collapsed easily.
Red Crescent Responds with Emergency Aid
The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) has deployed medical teams to provide immediate assistance to affected communities. “A powerful earthquake struck late last night in several areas of Nurgal district, Kunar province, resulting in severe human and financial losses,” the organization said in a statement on X.