International Desk, 12th December: Afghanistan experienced a 5.2 magnitude earthquake on the morning of December 12, as reported by the National Center for Seismology (NCS) on the microblogging site X.
According to the NCS, the quake originated 120 km below the surface, with coordinates at latitude 36.33 and longitude 70.70.
Fortunately, there have been no reported casualties or property losses so far.
Over the past year, Afghanistan has endured 276 earthquakes of varying magnitudes. The region faced severe damage and loss of life just over a week before the latest quake, with a powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake hitting the same area. This earlier quake led to thousands of deaths and the destruction of entire villages, attributed to thrust faulting at shallow depths.
The series of seismic events has not only caused immediate harm but also raised concerns about the increasing frequency of such occurrences in the region. In 2023, Mount St. Helens recorded over 400 earthquakes since July, indicating a rise in global seismic activity.
As Afghanistan deals with the aftermath, international aid organizations like the International Rescue Committee (IRC) have been actively providing emergency response services since 1988. They call on the global community to support relief efforts in the country.
Preparation and education on earthquake safety remain crucial for the people of Afghanistan. Taking steps such as securing homes, identifying safe places, having disaster supplies on hand, and developing emergency communication plans can mitigate the impact of such disasters.
The 5.2 magnitude quake serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Afghanistan in terms of natural disasters, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and preparedness.
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