Two 6.3 magnitude earthquakes struck Afghanistan on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of hundreds, according to a spokesperson for the country’s national disaster authority. The United States Geological Survey reported the 6.3 magnitude, with an epicenter located 40 kilometers (24.8 miles) northwest of Herat city. An aftershock measuring 5.5 magnitude was also recorded.
Residents of Herat reported at least five quakes around noon, local time, prompting them to evacuate their homes and seek safety. The World Health Organization dispatched ambulances. Videos shared on social media revealed hundreds of people gathered outside their homes and offices in Herat. Telephone connections have been disrupted, hampering communication. Local media reports the quakes were also felt in neighboring Afghan provinces of Farah and Badghis, as well as in parts of Iran.
Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban-appointed deputy prime minister for economic affairs, offered his condolences to the victims of the earthquakes in Herat and Badghis. This incident follows a powerful earthquake in June 2022, which resulted in the deaths of at least 1,000 people and injuries to approximately 1,500 more in eastern Afghanistan.
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