Afghanistan 6.3 Magnitude Earthquake: A powerful earthquake once again struck Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush mountain region late on Monday night, sparking panic among residents. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake measured 6.3 in magnitude, with its epicentre located about 22 kilometres west-southwest of Khulm city, at a depth of approximately 28 kilometres beneath the ground. The quake struck suddenly at 12:59 a.m. local time, shaking the region and sending people rushing out of their homes in fear. So far, at least 7 to 10 people have been reported dead and around 150 to 260 injured. Although no large-scale damage or official confirmation of major casualties has yet been made, relief and rescue operations are underway at full speed.
Epicentre of the Earthquake
The earthquake occurred in the Hindu Kush mountain region, a geologically sensitive zone located along the boundary of tectonic plates. This area lies where the Indian and Eurasian plates collide, making it prone to frequent seismic activity. The latest quake was centred mainly in northern Afghanistan, near the city of Mazar-e-Sharif, which has a population of around 523,000. The iconic Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif also suffered partial damage due to the tremors.
Relief Operations
Local authorities in Afghanistan have placed rescue and relief teams on high alert. Medical and emergency units have been deployed to healthcare centres, and nearby hospitals have been activated to accommodate the injured. Military and emergency response teams have launched rescue efforts in the affected areas, working to clear debris and transport victims to hospitals. The Afghan Red Crescent Society is also actively participating in relief operations, continuing its humanitarian assistance since the devastating earthquake that struck in August.
Previous Earthquakes
The Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan has remained vulnerable to intense seismic activity. In August 2025, a 6.0-magnitude earthquake claimed over 2,200 lives. Earlier, on 7 October 2023, another 6.3-magnitude quake killed at least 4,000 people. Additionally, in October 2025, tremors measuring 5.1 in magnitude were also recorded. These recurring incidents highlight the region’s extreme seismic sensitivity.
Humanitarian Crisis and Aid Efforts
The series of recent earthquakes has pushed Afghanistan into a deep humanitarian crisis. The lack of adequate food, medical care, and shelter has further worsened living conditions for survivors. The United Nations and several humanitarian organisations are actively engaged in providing assistance, but economic sanctions and the country’s challenging terrain continue to hinder relief operations. Reaching remote and rural areas remains a major obstacle, often delaying the delivery of aid.
The 6.3-magnitude earthquake in Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush mountain region once again underscores the area’s volatile seismic nature. Local authorities and international organisations are continuing relief efforts, closely monitoring the situation to ensure that essential assistance reaches those most in need as swiftly as possible.
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Utkarsh works as a Sub-Editor at 1Tak News. Technology and gadgets are his main beats, and he also tracks automobiles. A graduate of Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth, he began his journalism career in 2023 and has built experience across digital media platforms like 1Tak. Besides technology, he also has considerable experience covering national affairs, politics, research, and international news.
