A powerful 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late on Sunday, August 31, 2025, devastating the Kunar and Nangarhar provinces. The tremor, which occurred at 11:47 PM local time, has resulted in at least 812 fatalities and over 2,800 injuries, making it one of the deadliest earthquakes in the region’s recent history.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located in the Kuz Kunar District of Nangarhar Province, approximately 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad. The shallow depth of the quake amplified its destructive force, leading to widespread devastation in the affected areas. The Kunar Disaster Management Authority reported that the hardest-hit districts include Nurgal, Soki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapadare, where entire villages have been reduced to rubble.
Rescue operations are underway, with both local authorities and international organizations mobilizing resources to assist the affected populations. Helicopters have been deployed to evacuate the injured and deliver essential supplies to remote areas that are otherwise inaccessible due to damaged infrastructure and ongoing aftershocks. The United Nations has dispatched emergency teams to provide humanitarian aid, including medical assistance, food, and shelter.
The mountainous terrain and damaged roads have significantly hindered rescue efforts. Landslides triggered by the quake and subsequent aftershocks have further complicated access to the most affected regions. Additionally, the region is experiencing adverse weather conditions, with thunderstorms and high temperatures forecasted in the coming days, which may exacerbate the situation.
The Afghan government has appealed for international assistance to support the ongoing relief operations and to address the immediate needs of the affected communities. The earthquake has not only caused a tragic loss of life but has also left thousands homeless and in urgent need of aid.
