Daijiworld Media Network- Kabul

Kabul, Sep 1: A powerful earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan late Sunday, leaving at least 250 people dead and more than 500 injured, officials confirmed.

The 6.0-magnitude quake hit at 11:47 pm and was centered 27 kilometers east-northeast of Jalalabad in Nangarhar province, at a shallow depth of just 8 kilometers, according to the US Geological Survey. Shallow earthquakes typically cause greater destruction.

The Kunar Disaster Management Authority reported casualties from several districts, including Nur Gul, Soki, Watpur, Manogi and Chapadare. Rescue efforts were underway as authorities feared the death toll could rise further.

Jalalabad, a major trade hub due to its proximity to Pakistan, has a population of around 300,000 but its metropolitan area is much larger. Many of its residential areas, built with mud bricks and wood, are prone to collapse during seismic activity.

The region is also known for its agriculture, including citrus and rice farming, with the Kabul River running through the city.

Afghanistan has been hit by several deadly quakes in recent years. In October 2023, a 6.3-magnitude earthquake killed thousands, with Taliban authorities estimating 4,000 deaths, while U.N. figures put the toll closer to 1,500.