Rescue efforts are in progress after a powerful earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, leaving more than 250 people dead

Authorities have launched a large-scale rescue operation in eastern Afghanistan’s Kunar province after a powerful 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck late Sunday night, killing more than 250 people while most residents were asleep, officials said Monday.

Helicopters have been deployed to airlift the injured as landslides have blocked roads, preventing rescue teams from reaching several affected areas, an Information Ministry official told Anadolu.

So far, over 250 people have been confirmed dead and at least 500 injured, with officials warning the toll could rise further. Locals described the quake as one of the strongest to hit the country in recent years.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at 11:47 p.m. local time (1917 GMT), about 27 kilometers (16.7 miles) east-northeast of Jalalabad, at a shallow depth of 8 kilometers (5 miles).

Casualties have been reported in multiple districts of Kunar, including Nur Gal, Sawki, Watpur, Manogi, and Chapa Dara. Officials noted that figures remain incomplete as communication with remote villages is still limited and aid teams are en route.

Landslides have severely disrupted access to Dewa Gul in Sawki district and Mazar Dara in Nur Gul district, the official added.

Afghanistan’s interim administration spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the casualties, writing on X: “Sadly, tonight’s earthquake has caused loss of life and property damage in some of our eastern provinces.”

He said local officials and residents are leading rescue efforts, supported by teams from central and nearby provinces. “All available resources will be utilised to save lives,” Mujahid pledged.

The USGS also reported at least two aftershocks, each measuring 5.2 magnitude, in the same area following the main quake.