Eastern Afghanistan was struck by a magnitude-5.6 earthquake Thursday afternoon, adding to the devastation caused by Sunday’s deadly tremors that claimed over 2,200 lives. The latest quake, centered near Jalalabad, has left residents and aid workers bracing for further chaos as rescue teams scramble to save survivors.
Double Disaster Strikes
Thursday’s quake hit at 4:56 p.m. local time, with conflicting reports on its strength—the U.S. Geological Survey recorded it as 5.6, while Germany’s GFZ measured it at 6.2. The shallow depth of 10 km amplified its impact, rattling communities already reeling from Sunday’s magnitude-6 disaster.
‘Like a Nightmare on Repeat’
Nangarhar, Kunar, Laghman, and Nuristan provinces now resemble war zones, with collapsed homes and roads buried under landslides. Over 3,600 people are injured, and thousands remain missing. Local authorities describe the situation as "apocalyptic," with hospitals overwhelmed and supplies dwindling.
Global Aid Mobilizes
International organizations like the Red Cross and UN are deploying emergency teams, but rugged terrain and damaged infrastructure are slowing relief efforts. Social media floods with calls for donations as survivors face freezing nights without shelter. 🌧️⛑️
As aftershocks continue, Afghanistan’s crisis serves as a stark reminder of nature’s fury—and humanity’s resilience.
Reference(s):
Afghanistan hit by M5.6 earthquake after Sunday quake kills over 2,200
cgtn.com