A powerful magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31, 2025, at a shallow depth of approximately 8 kilometers, resulting in a tragic loss of life and widespread devastation.
Official reports confirm at least 622 fatalities and over 1,500 individuals injured, though some sources indicate higher numbers, with figures reaching up to 800 deaths and 2,500 injuries. The provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar were the most severely affected, with numerous villages in Kunar reportedly leveled. The earthquake's epicenter was located 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad.
The shallow depth of the tremor, coupled with the region's mountainous terrain and the prevalent use of traditional mud-stone construction in homes, significantly amplified the damage. Several villages in Kunar province were completely destroyed, and many others suffered substantial structural damage, particularly in districts like Nur Gul, Soki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapadare.
Emergency response efforts are actively underway. The Taliban government has deployed helicopters to facilitate the evacuation of the injured and the delivery of critical aid to remote areas. Local rescue teams and volunteers are working tirelessly, navigating landslides and blocked roads to reach isolated communities and provide essential medical assistance.
Hospitals in Kunar and Nangarhar, including the Nangarhar Regional Specialist Hospital, are reportedly overwhelmed by the influx of casualties. International humanitarian organizations such as the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are mobilizing to provide support. The Afghan Red Crescent Society has also deployed emergency teams to aid in search and rescue, deliver immediate relief, and conduct assessments.
This disaster underscores Afghanistan's vulnerability to seismic activity due to its location in a geologically active zone. The earthquake's impact exacerbates the existing humanitarian challenges faced by the country, highlighting the need for a coordinated and robust response for immediate relief and long-term recovery.