Strong Earthquake Shakes Hindu Kush Region, Felt Across Afghanistan and Pakistan

A powerful earthquake struck the Hindu Kush mountain region in Afghanistan on Saturday, causing widespread alarm and shaking areas far beyond the epicenter. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre measured the quake at magnitude 6.0 with a depth of approximately 100 kilometers, while the US Geological Survey reported a slightly higher magnitude of 6.1. The tremors were felt strongly in Kabul and across several regions in Pakistan, including Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Residents in both countries reacted with panic, with many fleeing their homes in fear. A witness from Swat district in northern Pakistan described people, especially women and children, crying and rushing outside as the shaking lasted unusually long. Initial reports from Afghan authorities indicated no immediate casualties or significant damage, but assessments are ongoing, particularly in remote mountainous villages where access is difficult.

In Pakistan, the situation was more severe. A separate 5.4 magnitude quake also struck the country on the same day, resulting in over 20 injuries and damage to dozens of homes in the Musakhail district of Balochistan province. The Balochistan Disaster Management Authority reported about 125 houses damaged and dispatched aid teams with tents, food, blankets, solar panels, and other supplies. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed regret over the damage and ordered swift assistance for those affected.

The Hindu Kush region is known for its seismic activity, and earthquakes here can be felt across neighboring countries due to the area's geological characteristics. Past deadly earthquakes in 2005 and recent years have heightened concerns about the potential impact of such events. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to determine the full extent of damage and casualties, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

As of the latest updates, no official reports of fatalities or major destruction have emerged from Afghanistan, but investigations remain ongoing. Pakistan continues relief efforts amid reports of injuries and property damage.