Feb 20 • 14:21 UTC 🇪🇨 Ecuador El Universo (ES)

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake shakes eastern Afghanistan

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, reported from Kabul and Nangarhar, with no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

On Friday, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, originating about 130 kilometers northeast of the capital, Kabul, as reported by AFP journalists. The tremor was felt across various provinces, including Bamiyan and Wardak, with residents confirming the intensity of the shake. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) provided information about the earthquake's magnitude and location, but as of now, there are no reports of damages or injuries.

Earthquakes are a frequent occurrence in Afghanistan, particularly along the Hindu Kush mountain range, where the interaction of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates creates a seismically active region. This rich geological backdrop makes the country vulnerable to significant earthquakes, with a history of devastating impacts. For instance, in August 2025, a shallow 6.0 quake in eastern Afghanistan led to the destruction of villages nestled in the hills, resulting in over 2,200 fatalities.

Recently, Afghanistan has experienced several strong earthquakes, including a 6.3 magnitude quake in the northern part of the country that killed at least 27 people. The pattern of seismic activity in recent years has raised concerns among both residents and officials regarding preparedness and response measures in the face of potential disasters, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and emergency protocols in this vulnerable region.

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