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Powerful Earthquake Kills 20 in Western Afghanistan
A magnitude-6.3 earthquake struck near Herat, Afghanistan, on [insert date], killing at least 20 people and injuring dozens more, according to local officials. The quake destroyed homes, triggered landslides, and left survivors scrambling for safety as aftershocks continued.
Extent of the Damage
The earthquake’s epicenter was near Herat, a major city in western Afghanistan, but tremors were felt across multiple provinces. Entire villages were flattened, and rescue teams face challenges reaching remote areas due to collapsed roads and disrupted communications. Authorities fear the death toll could rise as search operations expand.
Emergency Response and Challenges
Afghanistan’s disaster agency has deployed teams, but limited infrastructure and under-equipped hospitals are hindering relief efforts. Many victims are being treated in temporary clinics as medical facilities struggle with overcrowding. The Taliban-led government has called for international aid, but political isolation has delayed assistance.
Afghanistan’s Seismic Vulnerability
Afghanistan sits on active fault lines, making it prone to deadly earthquakes. In June 2022, a 6.1-magnitude quake killed over 1,000 in Paktika province. Today’s disaster highlights the urgent need for better disaster preparedness and earthquake-resistant infrastructure.
International Aid and Logistical Hurdles
The Red Cross, UN agencies, and neighboring countries like Pakistan and Iran are mobilizing aid, but access remains difficult. Survivors describe digging through rubble with bare hands to find loved ones. “We lost everything—our home and family,” said one Herat resident.
Ongoing Risks and Long-Term Needs
Aftershocks continue, raising fears of landslides and further collapses. Displaced families face shortages of shelter, food, and clean water as winter approaches. Long-term solutions, such as early warning systems and resilient housing, are critical to preventing future tragedies.
Stay updated with the latest developments on this breaking story.
—Reported by [Your Name], NextMinuteNews
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