On August 31, 2025, a 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, with the Kunar and Nangarhar provinces suffering the most severe destruction. The tremor left at least 622 dead and over 1,500 injured, making it one of the deadliest earthquakes in Afghanistan in recent years.

Entire villages were flattened in mountainous areas, roads were blocked, and survivors faced shortages of shelter, food, and medical aid.


Over 600 Dead as 6.0-Magnitude
Over 600 Dead as 6.0-Magnitude 


Human Losses and Damage


Casualties: At least 622 deaths and more than 1,500 injuries.

Homes Destroyed: Around 600 houses collapsed or were severely damaged.

Villages Affected: Dozens in Kunar province were either destroyed or heavily impacted.

Infrastructure: Key roads were disrupted, making rescue and aid delivery difficult.


Afghan Government and Community Response

The Taliban-led government immediately deployed rescue and emergency teams, activating health, food, and security services.


Rescue Efforts: Helicopters and ambulances transported the injured to hospitals, though the Nangarhar Regional Specialist Hospital was quickly overwhelmed.

Search Operations: Teams and local villagers worked together to rescue survivors amid aftershocks.

Civil Society Role: Afghan organizations distributed food, water, and medical supplies to displaced families.

Appeal for Aid: Authorities formally requested international humanitarian support.


Global Response

The earthquake triggered a rapid international response, though challenges remain due to Afghanistan’s mountainous terrain, sanctions, and weak infrastructure.


World Food Programme (WFP): Began distributing food and emergency rations.

World Health Organization (WHO): Supplied medical aid, tents, and blankets.

European Union: Sent humanitarian assessment teams to evaluate ground needs.

Pakistan: Provided medicine, food, tents, and water supplies across the border.


Despite these efforts, logistics bottlenecks continue to delay aid delivery to remote villages.


Humanitarian Context

This disaster worsens Afghanistan’s already fragile humanitarian crisis, which includes:


Ongoing conflict and political instability
Food insecurity affecting millions

Frequent climate-related disasters, such as droughts and floods


The quake highlights the urgent need for long-term resilience planning alongside short-term relief.


FAQs

Q1: When did the Afghanistan earthquake occur?
A1: On August 31, 2025, in the eastern provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar.

Q2: How many people died in the earthquake?
A2: At least 622 people were killed and over 1,500 injured.

Q3: What areas were most affected?
A3: Kunar and Nangarhar provinces, especially mountainous rural villages.

Q4: How is the Afghan government responding?
A4: By deploying rescue teams, medical aid, and requesting international assistance.

Q5: Which countries and organizations are providing aid?
A5: Pakistan, WHO, WFP, and the EU, among others, have already mobilized support.