A 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan on November 6, 2025, causing severe damage, leaving dozens dead and hundreds homeless. Survivors are taking shelter in schools as winter approaches. Get the latest updates on casualties, destruction, and relief efforts.
Magnitude 4.4 Earthquake Strikes Northern Afghanistan
A 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan on Thursday, November 6, 2025, causing widespread damage and leaving hundreds of people homeless. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) reported that the quake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 km, making the tremors more intense and increasing the risk of aftershocks. The epicenter was recorded at latitude 34.55 N and longitude 70.62 E.
The earthquake comes just days after a more powerful 6.3 magnitude tremor hit the region, exacerbating the devastation. According to Tolo News, the current disaster has claimed at least 27 lives, with nearly 1,000 injured. The destruction has forced many families to take refuge in school buildings, which have been converted into temporary shelters. Survivors report significant challenges as the harsh winter approaches, including lack of food, shelter, and basic amenities.
Residents of Samangan province described the collapse of entire houses, leaving families homeless and grieving for lost loved ones. One survivor, Gulabuddin, recounted losing his pregnant daughter-in-law in the quake while eight other family members narrowly survived. In Khulm district, families reported that all their possessions were buried under rubble, forcing them to rely on school buildings for safety and minimal resources.
Experts note that shallow earthquakes like this one are particularly dangerous because seismic waves travel shorter distances to the surface, producing stronger ground shaking and causing more damage. Authorities are urging for urgent relief and aid distribution to prevent further casualties, especially with winter temperatures dropping across the affected provinces.
