6.3-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Northern Afghanistan, Causing Casualties and Damage

A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan early Monday, resulting in at least 10 deaths and approximately 260 injuries, according to authorities. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the quake occurred at a depth of 28 kilometers near Mazar-e Sharif, a city with a population of about 523,000.

The provinces of Balkh and Samangan were among the hardest hit. Samim Joyanda, spokesperson for the health department in Samangan, stated, "A total of 150 people injured and seven martyred have been reported and transferred to health centres as of this morning."

The Afghan Ministry of Defense reported that military and emergency teams were deployed to the affected areas to conduct rescue operations and assist families.

The historic Blue Mosque in Mazar-e Sharif sustained minor damage. The earthquake was also felt in Kabul and caused a temporary rockslide on a key highway, which was cleared shortly after.

Afghanistan's location on the edge of the Eurasian tectonic plate makes it highly susceptible to seismic activity. The country has experienced numerous significant earthquakes in recent years, including a 6.0-magnitude quake in August 2025 that resulted in over 2,200 deaths.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, and officials caution that the death toll may rise as more information becomes available.