UNICEF warns aftershocks could continue for weeks after deadly Afghanistan quake

Aftershocks from the devastating earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan on August 31  may continue for days or even weeks, with further tremors of magnitude 4–5 still possible, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said in a report.

The agency noted that several strong aftershocks have already been recorded, including three of magnitude 5.2 on August 31 and September 2 near Asadabad, as well as a separate 5.5 tremor on September 2 that disrupted rescue operations, Caliber.Az cites. 

According to UNICEF, the main earthquake struck at a shallow depth in an area marked by steep terrain, fragile adobe and stone houses, and slopes vulnerable to landslides — conditions that make even moderate quakes capable of causing severe damage.

Key access routes remain blocked by landslides, particularly in Dewa Gul (Sawki District) and Mazar Dara (Nur Gul District), hampering relief and rescue efforts.

The 6.0–6.2 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Afghanistan late on August 31, with its epicenter in Kuz Kunar District, Nangarhar Province, about 27 kilometers east-northeast of Jalalabad. The quake, originating just 8 kilometers below the surface, has so far left at least 2,205 people dead and 3,640 injured, Taliban officials said on September 4.

Humanitarian agencies, including UNICEF, are part of a joint rapid assessment led by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and coordinated by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

Provincial officials, local volunteers, and aid partners remain engaged in the response, though debris and collapsed structures continue to delay rescue work.

By Sabina Mammadli