Afghanistan earthquake death toll reaches 2,200 as rescuers search rubble in Kunar and Nangarhar following deadly 6.2 magnitude tremor.
KABUL: A devastating magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck southeastern Afghanistan on Thursday, bringing the death toll to 2,205 and injuring more than 3,640 people, according to the Taliban administration. The quake is the third major tremor to hit the region in less than a week.
The German Research Centre for Geosciences reported the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres, further exacerbating its destructive impact. Entire villages in the provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar were flattened, leaving tens of thousands without shelter as rescue teams continued to recover bodies from beneath the debris.
The series of earthquakes began on Sunday, marking one of the deadliest seismic events the country has faced in recent years. The affected areas, primarily mountainous and difficult to access, have posed challenges for emergency crews attempting to reach remote villages with essential supplies and aid.
On Thursday, Afghan rescue workers intensified their operations, pulling victims from the rubble and working against the clock to locate any survivors. With homes destroyed and basic infrastructure severely damaged, humanitarian agencies are warning of an escalating crisis in the region.
The international community has begun mobilising assistance, though poor road conditions and limited resources remain significant obstacles. Local authorities are urging global organisations to provide emergency shelter, medical supplies, and search-and-rescue support.
The Taliban-led government has yet to declare an official state of emergency but has called for immediate relief aid to address the growing humanitarian toll.
