6.1 magnitude earthquake hits northeastern Afghanistan

Chijioke Obinna

6.1 magnitude earthquake hits northeastern Afghanistan

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake shook the province of Badakhshan, in northeastern Afghanistan, this Saturday and was felt in several neighboring provinces and the capital, Kabul. So far, no victims or damage have been reported, according to local authorities.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the 6.1 magnitude earthquake occurred at 6:05 p.m. local time at a depth of 199 kilometers, with the epicenter in the Jurm district, located in a seismically active region of the Hindu Kush mountain range. “The earthquake was relatively strong and was felt in Badakhshan province as well as in several other provinces. According to the reports we have received so far, there have been no casualties or property damage in the nearby areas of Badakhshan,” said Mohammad Akbar Akbari, director of Disaster Management for the province.

A scare due to the great intensity of the earthquake

The tremor was felt across northeastern Afghanistan, including Kabul, causing concern among residents, although de facto Taliban authorities said initial assessments did not indicate any significant impact. The quake was also felt in areas of neighboring Pakistan, including the capital, Islamabad, and in northern India. However, the authorities of both countries have not reported damage so far.

Badakhshan province, located along the Hindu Kush mountain range, is one of the most earthquake-prone provinces in Afghanistan. The region frequently experiences seismic activity, making it a recurring epicenter of earthquakes in the country.

Chijioke Obinna

I've been passionate about storytelling and journalism since my early days growing up in Lagos. With a background in political science and years of experience in investigative reporting, I aim to bring nuanced perspectives to pressing global issues. Outside of writing, I enjoy exploring Nigeria’s vibrant cultural scene and mentoring young aspiring journalists.