Kabul: A strong earthquake hit Afghanistan late Sunday night, resulting in significant casualties and destruction. The Taliban government confirmed that more than 800 people have died and over 2,500 were injured. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake’s epicenter near Jalalabad in Nangarhar Province, with a magnitude of 6.0 on the Richter scale. The tremor struck at 11:47 PM, catching many residents asleep and contributing to the high death toll.
#Afghanistan needs your urgent support! A devastating #earthquake has struck, causing death, injury, and destruction for vulnerable #Afghans. Every $1 counts. Please pray and donate to help those in need during this tragic time! 🙏 #AfghanRelief pic.twitter.com/ZpOtGOfANh
— Qasim Pacha (@PachaQasim) September 1, 2025
The provinces of Kunar, Laghman, and Nangarhar bore the brunt of the quake, with numerous homes and buildings completely flattened. Officials indicated that Kunar Province experienced particularly severe damage.
🔹The Taliban spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, announced that the death toll from last night’s earthquake in Kunar, Nangarhar, Laghman, and Nuristan provinces has reached 800, with 2,500 others injured.#Afghanistan #Earthquake #HumanitarianCrisis #KokchaNewsAgency #Kunar… pic.twitter.com/YR6YBtkw3l
— Kokcha Press خبرگزاری کوکچه (@kokchapress) September 1, 2025
Rescue operations have been challenging due to the mountainous terrain and the destruction of roads and communication networks, delaying aid delivery to affected areas. Authorities warned that many people may still be trapped under debris, and the death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.