Powerful Earthquake Strikes Northern Afghanistan, Causing Extensive Damage and Casualties

In the early hours of November 3, 2025, a powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan, resulting in significant loss of life, injuries, and damage to cultural landmarks, including the historic Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif.

The earthquake, which occurred at approximately 12:59 AM local time, had its epicenter near Khulm in Samangan Province, at a depth of 28 kilometers. The tremors were felt across multiple provinces, including Balkh, Samangan, Sar-e-Pul, and Kunduz, and as far as the capital, Kabul. Initial reports indicate at least 20 fatalities and over 640 injuries. The number of casualties is expected to rise as rescue operations continue.

Afghanistan is situated on the edge of the Eurasian tectonic plate, where it interacts with the Indian and Arabian plates, making it one of the world's most seismically active regions. Since 1990, the country has experienced at least 355 earthquakes of magnitude 5.0 or higher, resulting in significant annual fatalities and economic damage. The ongoing northward movement of the Indian plate against the Eurasian plate commonly triggers these quakes.

The recent earthquake caused substantial structural damage, notably to the 15th-century Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif, a revered site for Shia Muslims. The mosque sustained structural cracks and debris, representing a significant cultural loss. Additionally, the quake triggered landslides that temporarily blocked major highways, including the Samangan-Balkh highway, a key transport route.

Rescue operations were promptly initiated by local and military teams. The Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority and Health Ministry mobilized emergency services, placing hospitals on high alert. International aid has been pledged to support the affected regions, with organizations like Save the Children sending emergency health teams to the impacted areas. The World Health Organization noted damage to health facilities, including the collapse of a provincial hospital lab.

The earthquake has displaced hundreds of families, forcing them into temporary shelters. Limited access to safe drinking water and health services, particularly for women, poses significant health risks. The destruction of cultural heritage sites like the Blue Mosque underscores the broader impact of natural disasters on Afghanistan's historical landmarks.

This earthquake follows a series of significant seismic events in Afghanistan. In August 2025, a 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, resulting in over 1,400 deaths and more than 3,100 injuries. In October 2023, a 6.3 magnitude earthquake caused between 1,500 and 4,000 fatalities. These recurring disasters highlight the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure in the region.

As winter approaches, the immediate humanitarian needs include shelter, medical care, and access to clean water. The international community's support will be crucial in aiding recovery efforts and bolstering future preparedness to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters on Afghanistan's vulnerable population.