Devastating Earthquake Strikes Eastern Afghanistan, Heightening Humanitarian Crisis
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On August 31, 2025, a devastating magnitude 6.0 earthquake hit eastern Afghanistan, particularly affecting the Kunar and Nangarhar provinces. The shallow quake triggered widespread destruction of homes, schools, and infrastructure, causing fatal casualties across remote communities.
The disaster claimed over 1,400 lives, injured more than 3,000 people, and leveled thousands of mud-brick homes. Entire villages—such as those in Nurgal and Dewagal Valley—were destroyed, leaving families displaced and traumatized.
Rescue efforts are racing against time but face significant challenges. Landslides, heavy rains, and blocked access roads have delayed aid delivery. In many cases, survivors are sheltering in open fields or makeshift camps on higher ground due to fear of further collapses.
Adding to the crisis, two major aftershocks struck within 12 hours, causing further structural damage and hampering rescue operations. More than 6,700 homes were destroyed or rendered uninhabitable. Aid agencies say the number of fatalities could continue climbing as more remote areas become accessible.
Complicating the response is a chronic funding shortfall and a fragile healthcare infrastructure. The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the need for female aid workers to reach affected women and girls, as cultural restrictions under the Taliban regime limit access to care.
International aid has trickled in from several nations and UN agencies, but experts warn that donor fatigue and reduced global support are jeopardizing long-term recovery.
