A powerful earthquake with magnitude of 6.3 struck western Afghanistan, particularly near city of Herat, where more than 2,000 people had already lost their lives due to similar tremors over weekend. The quake hit at shallow depth of 10 km (6.21 miles) early in the morning.
Aiding Victims of the Afghanistan Earthquake
Rescue efforts have been underway since previous series of earthquake devastated villages and affected over 12,000 people. The disaster ministry reported that 2,053 people have died, although exact numbers remain uncertain as the situation is constantly changing.
The recent earthquake did not immediately result in new casualties, but it hit an area where many had already been living in fear, spending nights outdoors due to aftershock concerns. The region near Herat, home to over half a million people, was significantly affected.
How Rural Villages Cope with Earthquake Impact
The earthquakes completely destroyed numerous villages, leaving residents without shelter. Many homes in rural Afghanistan are made of mud and lack sturdy reinforcements, making them vulnerable to such disasters. Extended families often live together under one roof, so earthquakes can have devastating impacts on entire communities.
Providing Shelter Amidst Afghanistan’s Earthquake Crisis
Providing shelter for those affected poses significant challenge, especially for Taliban-led authorities in Afghanistan. The country is grappling with severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by withdrawal of foreign aid and ongoing drought conditions in several regions, including Herat province, which borders Iran.
Humanity Unites to Support Earthquake-Hit Communities
Despite challenges rescue efforts and humanitarian aid remain critical for affected communities as they attempt to recover from this devastating natural disaster worst Afghanistan has experienced in more than 25 years.
