Hundreds injured as 6.3 magnitude earthquake hits northern Afghanistan

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale struck near the northern Afghan city of Mazar-e Sharif early Monday morning, killing at least 10 people and injuring around 260, according to local authorities. Officials fear the toll could climb as rescue efforts continue.

The US Geological Survey reported that the quake hit at a depth of about 28 kilometres, close to Mazar-e Sharif, a bustling city of over half a million residents. The tremor sent waves of panic through communities across northern Afghanistan, where buildings swayed and families rushed out of their homes seeking safety.

Hospitals overwhelmed

Samim Joyanda, spokesperson for the health department in Samangan province, said that more than 150 people had been taken to hospitals for treatment, while seven deaths were confirmed by Monday morning. Health workers were still searching through damaged neighbourhoods for more victims.

The USGS issued an orange alert for the quake, signalling a high risk of casualties and widespread destruction. The agency noted that events of this scale typically require a national-level emergency response.

Historic shrine damaged

Authorities in Balkh province confirmed that part of the famous Blue Mosque, also known as the Shrine of Ali, was damaged by the quake. “Sections of the holy shrine have been destroyed,” said provincial spokesperson Haji Zaid.

Videos circulating on social media showed rescue workers pulling survivors and bodies from collapsed structures, while others cleared debris from streets filled with dust and rubble.

Region prone to devastation

Afghanistan lies along two major fault lines, making it one of the most quake-prone countries in the region. In August, more than 2,200 people were killed in a devastating earthquake and series of aftershocks in the country’s southeast, leaving thousands homeless.

With fragile infrastructure and limited emergency services, each tremor brings new devastation for Afghan communities still recovering from past disasters.