A powerful earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale struck northern Afghanistan early Monday, killing at least 10 people and injuring more than 260, according to local authorities. The quake’s epicenter was near the city of Mazar-e Sharif, in Balkh Province, an area home to over half a million residents. 

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake occurred at a depth of 28 kilometers. The tremor caused widespread panic, structural collapses, and damage to historical sites, as residents fled into the streets. 

Samim Joyanda, spokesman for the health department in Samangan —one of the worst-hit provinces— said that “as of Monday morning, seven people have been confirmed dead and at least 150 injured have been taken to hospitals,” warning that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue. 

The Taliban-run Ministry of Defense confirmed that several areas in Balkh and Samangan provinces were heavily affected. Military and emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to rescue survivors, transport the injured, and assist displaced families. 

“Medical teams have reached the area, and all nearby hospitals have been placed on high alert,” said Health Ministry spokesman Sharfat Zaman. “The number of casualties may increase as reports arrive from remote villages,” he added. 

The USGS issued an orange alert through its PAGER system, which assesses potential earthquake impacts. The report warned that “significant casualties are likely, and the disaster could be widespread,” suggesting a need for a national-level response. 

Afghanistan, a country prone to earthquakes

Afghanistan is highly prone to earthquakes, as it sits atop two major active fault lines. In August, more than 2,200 people died following a powerful quake and strong aftershocks in the country’s southeast. 

Poor infrastructure, limited resources, and restricted access to remote mountainous areas have further complicated rescue efforts. Local authorities have called for international assistance to provide emergency aid and support reconstruction efforts. 

Footage circulating on social media showed scenes of destruction in Mazar-e Sharif, with collapsed buildings, rescue workers digging through debris, and residents searching for survivors. Several videos appeared to show teams retrieving bodies from the rubble. 

One of the most notable damages occurred at the city’s sacred Blue Mosque, a historic and religious landmark. According to provincial spokesman Haji Zaid, part of the mosque’s structure was damaged during the quake. 

Rescue teams continue to work tirelessly amid the devastation, as fears of aftershocks persist in a country already struggling with severe economic hardship and a prolonged humanitarian crisis.