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Hundreds perish in devastating earthquake in Afghanistan, claiming over 600 lives

Catastrophic earthquake in Afghanistan leaves 622 dead, over 1,500 injured, according to the Afghan Ministry of Interior, as reported to Reuters.

Over 600 fatalities in Afghanistan due to devastating earthquake
Over 600 fatalities in Afghanistan due to devastating earthquake

Hundreds perish in devastating earthquake in Afghanistan, claiming over 600 lives

On September 1, 2023, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.0 hit near the border with Pakistan. The epicentre of the earthquake was located approximately 27 km east of Jalalabad in Kunar province.

The tremors from the earthquake were felt in several regions, including Kabul and Khost. The impact was particularly severe in Kunar, Nangarhar, and Laghman provinces.

According to the latest reports, at least 622 people have lost their lives due to the earthquake, with 12 deaths reported in Nangarhar and 610 in Kunar. Around 1,000 injured individuals have been evacuated and hospitalized.

The earthquake occurred at a depth of around 8 km and was followed by aftershocks of magnitudes 5.2 and 4.7.

In response to the disaster, the international aid organization Help – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe has launched emergency aid measures last week to support earthquake victims in Afghanistan. The focus is on providing cash aid for shelter, food, drinking water, and firewood in heavily affected areas.

This tragic event serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of many communities in Afghanistan and the importance of swift and effective aid in the aftermath of disasters. The situation remains fluid, and updates on the situation will be provided as more information becomes available.

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