UPDATE: A devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan at 12:59 a.m. on October 7, 2023, claiming the lives of at least 20 people and injuring more than 640 others. The quake, centered near the town of Khulm, has left significant destruction in its wake, including damage to the historic Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif.
Local officials report that the death toll could rise as rescue efforts continue. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of chaos, with residents digging through rubble to recover belongings and search for survivors. One local resident, Ahmad Zia, recounted the harrowing experience: “We pulled the bodies of two people from the rubble, and their funerals will be held today.”
The earthquake’s epicenter was located 22 kilometers (14 miles) west-southwest of Khulm, striking at a depth of 28 kilometers (17 miles). The tremor was felt across multiple provinces, including Balkh, Samangan, Sar-e-Pul, and Kunduz. Qari Taj Mohammad Hemat, deputy spokesman for Afghanistan’s National Disaster Management Authority, confirmed the casualties and stated that 25 individuals are in critical condition.
Rescue teams have mobilized, bringing many of the injured to hospitals in Balkh and Samangan provinces. However, the situation remains dire, especially in remote areas where damage is extensive. Ihsanullah Kamgar, spokesperson for the provincial police, reported that around 800 houses were either partially or completely destroyed in one village alone.
As authorities work to assess the full scale of the disaster, the Taliban government announced that rescue and emergency teams have reached the affected areas. Zabihullah Mujahid, the government’s chief spokesman, stated on social media that efforts are underway to deliver aid and support to those in need.
In a display of solidarity, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari expressed his deep sorrow, offering condolences to the victims’ families and assuring that Pakistan stands with the Afghan people during this tragic time. This gesture comes amid ongoing peace talks between the two nations, which have been complicated by recent border tensions.
Footage circulating on social media shows significant damage to the Blue Mosque, a revered Islamic site, though the main structure remains intact. This centuries-old landmark plays a crucial role in cultural and religious gatherings, heightening the emotional impact of the quake’s destruction.
The United Nations announced that its teams are on the ground assessing the needs of affected communities and providing urgent aid. “We stand with the affected communities and will provide the necessary support,” they posted on social media.
As the situation develops, the impact of this earthquake is becoming increasingly clear. Residents are grappling with loss and destruction, while emergency responders are working tirelessly to provide assistance. The international community watches closely as Afghanistan faces yet another challenge in its ongoing struggle to recover from natural disasters.
Stay tuned for updates as rescue efforts continue and authorities release more information on the situation.
