Afghanistan earthquake: What we know - and what we don't
Tens of thousands of lives shaken
A powerful earthquake has struck Afghanistan, with initial reports of widespread damage and fears that the death toll could rise into the many thousands. The 5.9-magnitude quake was centred in the mountainous Hindu Kush region, about 155 miles (250km) south-west of the capital, Kabul.
Terrified survivors speak of devastation
They spoke of collapsed buildings and landslides as aftershocks continued to be felt. The earthquake triggered landslides and sent people fleeing to open ground as parts of Afghanistan and Pakistan suffered power blackouts.
Pakistan also feels the impact
The quake hit Pakistan as well, with the northern parts of the country suffering the most. As yet, there is no conclusive report on the magnitude of the earthquake in Pakistan.
Helicopters mobilize to affected areas
Relief helicopters were scrambled to the affected areas of Afghanistan and Pakistan as it became clear that the quake had caused widespread devastation. Teams from the Afghan National Disaster Management Authority and the Taliban administration were also responding.
Tsunami warning issued and lifted
The quake was strong enough to trigger a tsunami warning from the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning System. However, it later announced that the alert had been lifted and no tsunami had been detected.
The impact on infrastructure
The quake hit roads and communication networks, with many areas now cut off. As well as the immediate impact on infrastructure, concerns have been raised about the longer-term impact on the already dire humanitarian crisis.
Impacts on aid operations
The quake has already had an impact on the aid operations in the region. Supplies had recently been able to reach the northern part of the country via road from Uzbekistan. However, with many of the roads and tunnels damaged, it is likely that supplies will need to be airlifted, significantly slowing the delivery of aid.
A crisis compounded
This latest disaster is a devastating blow to a country already in the grips of a worsening humanitarian crisis. With the country heavily reliant on aid operations to deliver basic necessities, the quake has further compounded the challenges facing those trying to help.
As circumstances on the ground evolve, with the ongoing impact of the quake and the response from governments and aid organisations, the story will continue to develop.
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