Powerful Earthquake Strikes Afghanistan, 9 Dead; Tremors Felt as Far as Delhi

A powerful earthquake struck southeastern Afghanistan around midnight on Sunday-Monday, resulting in widespread destruction and the tragic loss of at least nine lives.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake had a magnitude of 6.3 on the Richter scale and struck at a depth of 8 kilometers. The epicenter was located 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad.

The tremors were so strong that they were felt across neighboring countries, including Pakistan and parts of northern India, with reports of shaking as far as Delhi-NCR.

In Afghanistan, the quake caused significant structural damage, forcing residents to flee their homes in panic. According to Nakeebullah Rahimi, spokesperson for the Nangarhar Public Health Department, nine people lost their lives and at least 15 others sustained injuries.

The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. Following the initial quake, a second tremor measuring 4.5 on the Richter scale was recorded approximately 20 minutes later at a depth of 10 kilometers.

In India, residents of Delhi and surrounding areas reported feeling the tremors late at night. Many people ran out of their homes as buildings swayed, though no major damages or injuries have been reported in the region.

Authorities in Afghanistan have launched rescue and relief operations, and emergency services are actively working in the affected areas. Officials are continuing to assess the extent of the damage as aftershocks remain a concern.