Devastating Earthquake Strikes Northern Afghanistan, Triggering Landslides and Widespread Destruction

At least 10 people were killed and over 260 injured after a 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan, triggering landslides and widespread destruction. The quake struck around 12:59 a.m. local time near Khulm district in Balkh province, sending shockwaves through multiple northern provinces, including Kabul. Rescue and medical teams have been dispatched to remote villages, but officials say damaged infrastructure and blocked mountain roads are slowing relief efforts.

Key Takeaways:

At least 10 people were killed and over 260 injured in the 6.3-magnitude earthquake that struck northern Afghanistan.
The quake triggered landslides and widespread destruction, including a massive landslide along the Samangan-Balkh highway in the Tashqurghan gorge.
Rescue teams are working in affected areas, but damaged infrastructure and blocked mountain roads are slowing relief efforts.
The death toll could rise as more reports come in, with local sources reporting six people killed and nearly 70 injured in Balkh province alone.
Dozens of others remain missing as search operations continue.
Afghanistan's rugged terrain and fragile housing continue to make earthquakes particularly deadly.
Humanitarian agencies are urging greater preparedness amid worsening winter conditions and limited international aid.
Sharafat Zaman, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health, confirmed the ongoing rescue efforts and warned of a potentially rising death toll.

Statistics:

10 people were killed in the earthquake.
Over 260 people were injured in the earthquake.
The quake struck with a magnitude of 6.3.
The tremor struck at 12:59 a.m. local time.
Rescue and medical teams have been dispatched to remote villages.
At least 70 people were injured in Balkh province alone.
Dozens of people remain missing as search operations continue.

Sources:

Khaama Press. ("Afghanistan, Nov. 3 --")