6.3-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Northern Afghanistan, Damaging Historic Blue Mosque

A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan early Monday, causing significant casualties and structural damage. The United States Geological Survey reported the quake's epicenter near Mazar-e-Sharif, at a depth of 28 kilometers.

The Afghan Ministry of Public Health confirmed at least 20 fatalities and over 600 injuries across the provinces of Balkh, Samangan, Sar-e-Pul, and Kunduz. Authorities cautioned that these figures might rise as rescue operations continue.

The historic Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif, a 15th-century landmark renowned for its vibrant tiles, sustained damage. An AFP journalist observed debris from one of its minarets scattered across the mosque's grounds.

In the town of Khulm, near the epicenter, residents used shovels to search through the rubble of collapsed mud-brick homes, attempting to salvage belongings. Local resident Ahmad Zia described the air as polluted with dust from the ruins.

The Taliban government's chief spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, stated that government organizations are working to provide the necessary assistance.

This earthquake follows a series of deadly quakes in Afghanistan, including one in August that resulted in over 2,200 deaths. The country's mountainous terrain and infrastructure challenges continue to make it vulnerable to such natural disasters.