A powerful earthquake struck northern Afghanistan's Samangan province on Tuesday, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming at least five lives while injuring 143 people, according to local authorities.
Immediate Impact and Casualties
The quake, which measured significant magnitude, sent panic through the region as buildings shook violently. Local health officials confirmed the death toll has risen to five, with the number of injured surpassing 140 individuals. Many of the injured have been transported to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment.
Rescue Operations Underway
Emergency response teams have been deployed to the affected areas to conduct rescue operations and provide immediate assistance to survivors. The earthquake caused substantial damage to residential structures and infrastructure, leaving many families homeless and in urgent need of shelter and supplies.
Regional Seismic Activity
Afghanistan and surrounding regions have experienced increased seismic activity in recent months, with this being one of the more powerful tremors to hit the area. The Samangan province, located in the northern part of the country, has historically been vulnerable to earthquakes due to its geographical positioning along active fault lines.
Government Response
Local authorities have established emergency response centers and are coordinating relief efforts. The provincial government has appealed for additional support and resources to handle the growing humanitarian crisis. Assessment teams are currently evaluating the full extent of the damage across affected villages.
International aid organizations are monitoring the situation closely and preparing to deploy assistance as needed. The coming hours will be critical for rescue operations as teams work to locate anyone still trapped under debris and provide medical care to the injured.
