At least 20 people have died and hundreds more injured in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake that struck northern Afghanistan on Monday, according to local authorities. The magnitude-6.3 quake hit near Mazar-e-Sharif, one of the country's largest cities with a population of over half a million residents.
As rescue efforts continue, officials warned that the death toll is likely to rise, and the full extent of the damage may take time to be fully assessed. Provincial officials had initially reported casualties were likely to rise as rescue teams worked to reach affected areas.
The quake's impact was exacerbated by the fact that many buildings in Mazar-e-Sharif are not earthquake-resistant, leaving residents vulnerable to collapse. The country's rugged terrain and proximity to several major fault lines also make it prone to earthquakes, according to experts.
As the full extent of the devastation becomes clear, the international community is likely to provide assistance to those affected by this disaster. Afghanistan is currently facing significant humanitarian challenges, including a severe economic crisis and ongoing conflict, making the response to this disaster even more critical.
The latest quake comes after another major earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan last month, killing over 1,100 people in the rural areas where many homes were made of mud and timber.
As rescue efforts continue, officials warned that the death toll is likely to rise, and the full extent of the damage may take time to be fully assessed. Provincial officials had initially reported casualties were likely to rise as rescue teams worked to reach affected areas.
The quake's impact was exacerbated by the fact that many buildings in Mazar-e-Sharif are not earthquake-resistant, leaving residents vulnerable to collapse. The country's rugged terrain and proximity to several major fault lines also make it prone to earthquakes, according to experts.
As the full extent of the devastation becomes clear, the international community is likely to provide assistance to those affected by this disaster. Afghanistan is currently facing significant humanitarian challenges, including a severe economic crisis and ongoing conflict, making the response to this disaster even more critical.
The latest quake comes after another major earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan last month, killing over 1,100 people in the rural areas where many homes were made of mud and timber.
Just reading about this devastating earthquake in northern Afghanistan is breaking my heart... 20+ deaths and hundreds more injured? 
My thoughts are with the people of Mazar-e-Sharif right now. The fact that so many buildings aren't designed to withstand earthquakes makes it even worse, you know? 
It's just another tragedy in a country already dealing with so much. And to think, this is happening on top of everything else they're going through - economic crisis and conflict... 
I'm worried about the response times and if it's enough to make a difference. The international community has to come together to help those affected... we can't just sit back and watch 
they're already goin thru alot w/ econ crisis & conflict... now dis earthquake hits & it's gonna take a long time 4 them 2 recover from dis 
hundreds injured & over 20 dead... hope ppl get the help dey need ASAP 
. The fact that many buildings aren't even designed to withstand earthquakes is really concerning 
. And on top of all this, Afghanistan's already dealing with economic and conflict issues... it's just a lot for the country to handle right now 
. We should be keeping an eye out for any potential assistance from the international community 
they really need some serious help and support from the world right now 
Man, it's just so sad what's happening in Afghanistan right now. I keep thinking about all those innocent ppl who lost their lives & are injured in this quake 
I'm hoping the international community steps up to provide aid & support to those in need 
Just kidding, kinda. On a more serious note, it's crazy to think about how many people are affected by this disaster.