A powerful 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan near Jalalabad on Sunday at 23:47 local time, with a shallow depth of 8 km, causing widespread destruction in remote mountainous provinces of Nangarhar and Kunar.

The ongoing seismic activity and the region's poor infrastructure highlight the urgent need for sustained international support and disaster preparedness.

The earthquake has resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating over 800 deaths and approximately 2,800 injuries, surpassing earlier estimates.

The US Geological Survey issued an orange alert, indicating a high likelihood of significant casualties and widespread impact, with many residents feeling strong tremors.

Heavy aftershocks continue to be felt, and rescue teams are evacuating injured individuals, as the main highway from Jalalabad to Kunar has reopened but many roads remain inaccessible.

The region is highly vulnerable to seismic activity due to the collision of the Arabian, Indian, and Eurasian tectonic plates, which frequently trigger powerful earthquakes.

This disaster follows recent severe floods and landslides in the area, further exacerbating the impact on already fragile infrastructure and communities.

Rescue operations are ongoing, with helicopters being used to reach remote and mountainous areas where landslides and blocked roads hinder ground access.

Many homes, primarily built from mud and stone, have been destroyed, and rescue teams are working under difficult conditions to find survivors and provide aid.

Hospitals in affected districts, including Jalalabad, have treated at least 15 injured individuals, with many more still awaiting assistance amid ongoing rescue efforts.

International aid organizations, including the UN, Germany, Iran, and China, are mobilizing resources, though limited infrastructure and ongoing seismic activity pose challenges.

The UN Secretary-General has expressed deep concern and solidarity with the Afghan people, with aid teams being dispatched to support relief efforts.