A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan near Jalalabad on August 31 around 11:45 p.m., centered about 27 kilometers northeast in Nangarhar Province. Taliban authorities reported around 250 deaths and hundreds injured, with initial counts citing about 330 injuries in Nangarhar and Laghman and potentially higher casualties in Kunar. The USGS reported an 8-kilometer depth, increasing potential damage, and modelling suggested deaths could reach into the hundreds. Aftershocks of 4.5 and 5.2 magnitudes followed. Tremors were felt in Kabul and as far as Islamabad. Rescue teams and resources were mobilized to affected areas.
Sharaftat Zaman, a spokesman for the Taliban-run health ministry, told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi said that initial reports indicated around 330 people were injured in the regions of Nangarhar and Laghman. He added that the number of casualties is likely higher in Kunar province, but that there was not yet an accurate count. Modelling by the USGA earlier suggested the estimated number of deaths could reach into the hundreds of people.
The USGA said the quake was 8 kilometers deep, a relatively shallow level that often causes greater damage than deeper temblors. A 4.5-magnitude quake struck in the region some 20 minutes later, followed by another aftershock of 5.2 magnitude, according to the German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ). Residents of Pakistan's capital, Islamabad -- more than 300 kilometers away -- reported feeling buildings shaking.
"Unfortunately, tonight's earthquake has had human casualties and financial damage in some of our eastern provinces," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid posted on X. "Local officials and residents are making all the efforts to rescue affected ones. Support teams from the capital and nearby provinces are also on their way. All available resources will be used for the rescue and relief of the people," he added.
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