Massive Earthquake in Afghanistan: 250 Dead, 500 Injured, Magnitude 6

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a strong earthquake of magnitude 6.0 struck late Sunday night near the Pakistan border in eastern Afghanistan. The epicenter was located close to Jalalabad in Nangarhar province, with a depth of 8 kilometers. Ajmal Darwish, spokesperson for the provincial health department, confirmed that in Nangarhar alone, at least 250 people lost their lives and over 500 were injured. Several areas reported heavy destruction.

The tremors were so powerful that they were also felt in many parts of India, particularly in Delhi-NCR, as well as across Pakistan. About 20 minutes later, a second quake measuring 4.5 magnitude and 10 kilometers deep hit the same region, occurring at 11:47 p.m. local time.

Earlier major quake in Afghanistan

On October 7, 2023, Afghanistan was hit by a 6.3 magnitude earthquake followed by strong aftershocks. The Taliban government estimated at least 4,000 fatalities, though United Nations figures suggested around 1,500. It was one of the deadliest natural disasters in the country in recent years.

Fifth earthquake within a month

https://vxtwitter.com/USGS_Quakes/status/1962246803665170562

This latest tremor marked the fifth earthquake in Afghanistan within a month, highlighting its vulnerability as a quake-prone region. On August 27, a 5.4 magnitude quake was recorded; on August 17, a 4.9 magnitude; on August 13, a 4.2 magnitude at 10 km depth; and on August 8, a 4.3 magnitude, also at 10 km depth.

How is earthquake magnitude measured?

Earthquakes are measured using the Richter scale, formally known as the Richter magnitude scale. This scale ranges from 1 to 9 and calculates intensity from the epicenter. It measures the energy released from within the earth, and the magnitude indicates the strength and destructive potential of the tremors.