Europe Asia News

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake occurred early Monday morning local time, at a depth of 28 kilometers near the city of Mazar-i-Sharif. The city is the capital of Balkh province and one of the most populous urban centers in northern Afghanistan.

Afghanistan has experienced a series of earthquakes in recent years that have killed thousands of people, and USGS models estimate that this quake could also result in hundreds of casualties.

The Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority stated: “So far, five people have been reported dead and 143 injured in Samangan; most were discharged and sent home after receiving medical treatment.” It added: “Material damage has also been reported in the affected areas.”

The earthquake caused visible damage to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif, one of Afghanistan’s architectural treasures and an important pilgrimage site. Social media footage shows debris scattered across the ground outside the mosque.