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Earthquakes

Devastating Earthquake Strikes Eastern Afghanistan, 622 Lives Lost

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A powerful earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan in the early hours of Sunday night, registering a magnitude of 6.0 on the Richter scale, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake claimed 622 lives and injured 1,555 people in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces, with an additional 80 people injured in Laghman province. The international community has expressed deep sorrow over the disaster, with the United Nations, European Union, Japan, and Turkey sending teams to provide urgent assistance to the affected communities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The earthquake struck around midnight on Sunday night, registering a magnitude of 6.0 on the Richter scale, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
  • The Ministry of Interior Affairs reported that the quake in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces claimed 622 lives and injured 1,555 people, while destroying a large number of homes.
  • The Ministry of Public Health said 80 people were also injured in Laghman province.
  • The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
  • The UN team in Afghanistan has been mobilized and will spare no effort to assist those in need.
  • The European Union in Afghanistan extended its heartfelt condolences to all affected by the recent earthquake and stated that its humanitarian partners are actively providing critical aid.
  • Japan's ambassador to Kabul, Takayoshi Kurumaya, expressed sadness over the casualties and extended his condolences to the victims.
  • The Turkish Embassy in Kabul posted on X, expressing sorrow over the news of the earthquake and praying for the deceased and injured.

Statistics:

  • 622 lives lost in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces
  • 1,555 people injured in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces
  • 80 people injured in Laghman province
  • Magitude of 6.0 on the Richter scale, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS)
  • Number of homes destroyed by the earthquake unknown

Sources:

  • United Nations, the European Union, Japan, and Turkey statement on X
  • United States Geological Survey (USGS)
  • Ministry of Interior Affairs press release
  • Ministry of Public Health press release
  • António Guterres, UN Secretary-General's statement on X
  • European Union in Afghanistan statement on X
  • Japan Embassy in Kabul statement on X
  • Turkish Embassy in Kabul statement on X

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