6.3 magnitude earthquake in Afghanistan: over 20 dead, hundreds injured and damage to the historic Blue Mosque

Terremoto Afghanistan

Tonight a violent earthquake of magnitude 6.3 shook northern Afghanistan, hitting the provinces of Balkh and Samangan. The epicenter, located about 22 kilometers west of the city of Khulm, developed at a depth of 28 kilometers, according to data from the US Geological Survey (USGS).

Local authorities confirmed at least 20 victims and over 320 injured, many of whom were rushed to hospitals in Mazar-i-Sharif, the main city in the area. The tremor, clearly felt also in Kabul, caused landslides that temporarily blocked the highway between the two cities, which was later reopened thanks to the intervention of rescuers.

Collapses and damage to the Blue Mosque of Mazar-i-Sharif

Among the damaged buildings is the historic Blue Mosque, a 15th-century architectural masterpiece and religious symbol of Afghanistan. Images circulating on social media show visible cracks on the blue tiles covering the dome and walls of the sanctuary.

The Ministry of Defense stated that emergency teams were immediately sent to the most affected areas to provide assistance to the population, while the stability of religious and civil structures compromised by the earthquake continues to be monitored. The extent of the overall damage, however, remains to be assessed.

Yet another earthquake to face in the Taliban regime

This earthquake comes just over two months after another seismic event which, between 31 August and 1 September, devastated the north-east of the country causing over 2,200 deaths. In that case, the most superficial hypocenter – just 8 kilometers – had amplified the destructive force of the earthquake.

Rescue difficulties remain a structural problem: the strict rules imposed by the Taliban, which prohibit direct contact between unrelated men and women, continue to hinder rescue and treatment operations, especially in rural areas. In a country marked by war, poverty and fragile infrastructure, the land continues to remind us – with frightening punctuality – how precarious the daily lives of millions of Afghans remain.

You might also be interested in:

Chris Rivers

Chris Rivers

With over 15 years of experience in journalism and a deep-seated passion for environmental sustainability, I lead the editorial team at Green Technology Investments. My background in environmental science fuels my commitment to crafting insightful and impactful content. When I'm not penning articles, you can find me exploring national parks or tending to my organic garden.