A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan before dawn Monday, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 500. The USGS placed the epicenter about 22 km (14 miles) west-southwest of Khulm; the quake occurred at 12:59 a.m. at a depth of 28 km (17 miles). Health officials said hospitals in Balkh and Samangan had received 534 injured people and 20 bodies. Rescuers remain on site and authorities warned that casualty figures could increase as searches continue.
Powerful 6.3-Magnitude Earthquake in Northern Afghanistan Kills at Least 20, Injures Hundreds
A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan before dawn Monday, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 500. The USGS placed the epicenter about 22 km (14 miles) west-southwest of Khulm; the quake occurred at 12:59 a.m. at a depth of 28 km (17 miles). Health officials said hospitals in Balkh and Samangan had received 534 injured people and 20 bodies. Rescuers remain on site and authorities warned that casualty figures could increase as searches continue.
11:45, 03.11.2025Environment
Powerful earthquake kills at least 20 and wounds hundreds in northern Afghanistan
KABUL, Afghanistan — A strong 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan before dawn on Monday, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 500, officials said.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported the quake's epicenter was about 22 kilometers (14 miles) west-southwest of the town of Khulm. The tremor occurred at 12:59 a.m. local time at a depth of 28 kilometers (17 miles).
Sharafat Zaman, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health, said hospitals in Balkh and Samangan provinces had received 534 injured people and 20 bodies. Rescuers and emergency teams were working at the scene and officials warned the toll could rise as search-and-rescue operations continue and more information becomes available.
Local authorities have mobilized medical teams and first responders to affected districts. Humanitarian groups and neighboring provinces are monitoring the situation, and residents have been urged to stay clear of damaged buildings and to follow guidance from emergency services.
Note: Casualty figures remain fluid as rescue efforts continue and assessments of damage are ongoing.