Deadly Earthquake Rattles Afghanistan, Significant Casualties Feared

A powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.3 struck northern Afghanistan near the city of Mazar-i-Sharif, killing at least 20 and injuring around 320, according to various sources. The quake, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, was felt as far as the capital, Kabul, and resulted in significant damage to structures, including the famous Blue Mosque.

Background and Context

This latest tremor follows just two months after the deadliest quake in recent Afghan history, which claimed over 2,200 lives in the country's east, particularly affecting the village of Spedar in the forgotten province of Kunar. The quake's epicenter was located 22 km west-southwest of Khulm, Afghanistan, and had a depth of 28 km, as reported by The Hindu.

Details and Developments

The US Geological Survey (USGS) issued an orange alert in its PAGER system, indicating that “significant casualties are likely and the disaster is potentially widespread”. The quake struck at a depth of 28km (17.4 miles).

Local authorities in Afghanistan have reported several deaths and dozens of injuries. The health ministry's preliminary tolls of deaths and injuries were recorded in the Balkh and Samangan provinces, which have suffered most of the damage.

In the village of Spedar, ruined houses mar the pastoral idyll. My son died in one of those houses, says a local resident. Some of our animals are also buried in the ruins.

Reactions and Implications

The earthquake also caused damage to Mazar-i-Sharif's shrine, known as The Blue Mosque, according to Al Jazeera English. The extent of the damage was not immediately clear, but the incident has sparked concerns about the structural integrity of other historical sites in the region.

Current Status

The current death toll stands at 20 with around 320 reported injuries, according to the Afghan health ministry. However, the numbers are expected to rise as rescue workers continue to sift through the rubble and reach more remote areas affected by the quake.

This latest earthquake has further exacerbated the challenges faced by Afghanistan, a country already grappling with significant economic and security issues. The international community's response to this disaster and its aftermath will be crucial in the coming days and weeks.