6.3-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Northern Afghanistan, Causing Fatalities and Injuries

A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan near Mazar-e Sharif early Monday, resulting in at least 20 deaths and over 500 injuries, according to local authorities. The tremor occurred at a depth of 28 kilometers, with its epicenter approximately 22 kilometers west-southwest of Khulm.

The provinces of Balkh and Samangan experienced significant damage. In Samangan, 800 houses in one village were partially or completely destroyed, though casualty figures remain uncertain due to communication challenges. The historic 15th-century Blue Mosque in Mazar-e Sharif sustained minor damage.

Rescue operations are underway, with emergency teams from the Ministry of Defense responding promptly. The United Nations mission in Afghanistan is assisting with relief efforts. The earthquake also caused a temporary rockslide, blocking a major highway.

Afghanistan's location on the edge of the Eurasian tectonic plate makes it highly susceptible to earthquakes. Since 1990, the country has experienced at least 355 earthquakes over magnitude 5.0, resulting in significant annual fatalities and economic damage.