Afghanistan: Latest News and Updates

If you’re looking for what’s happening in Afghanistan right now, you’ve come to the right place. The biggest story this week is the powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake that struck near Jalalabad. It caused massive damage, killed over a thousand people and left thousands more injured. Below we break down what we know, how rescue teams are responding, and what you can do to help.

What the earthquake hit

The quake’s epicenter was about 17 miles east of Jalalabad, shaking the Kunar and Nangarhar provinces hard. More than 8,000 homes collapsed and landslides blocked the main roads that connect remote villages to the city. Because the terrain is mountainous, getting supplies into the worst‑hit areas is a real headache for anyone on the ground.

Officials say the death toll has already passed 1,100, with nearly 3,000 injuries reported. Many families are still missing, and the number could rise as rescue crews keep digging through rubble. The damage isn’t just buildings—power lines, water pipes and communications networks are all down, making it difficult for survivors to call for help.

Rescue and relief efforts

Both local authorities and international aid groups have swung into action. The Afghan Red Crescent Society sent out emergency teams with blankets, food and medical kits. China pledged financial aid and sent a small team of engineers to assess the structural damage. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is coordinating a wider response, focusing on clearing landslides and reopening blocked roads.

Helicopters are being used to air‑lift supplies to villages that are cut off by mud and rock. Volunteers are setting up temporary shelters in schools and community centers, where displaced families can get a safe place to sleep and a hot meal. If you want to help, donating to reputable charities like the Red Cross, UNICEF or local NGOs can get money directly to the people on the front lines.While the immediate rescue phase is intense, experts warn that the long‑term recovery will take months, if not years. Re‑building homes, restoring power and getting schools back in operation will need sustained funding and coordination. The government has promised to work with international partners to set up a reconstruction plan, but bureaucracy and security concerns could slow things down.

For those following the story, keep an eye on updates from the Afghan Ministry of Disaster Management and trusted news outlets. Social media can be a useful source of real‑time information, but always double‑check facts before sharing. The situation is fluid, and new details about aftershocks or additional damage can emerge at any time.

In short, the earthquake has shaken Afghanistan’s eastern region hard, but the response is already underway. By staying informed and supporting reputable aid groups, you can play a part in getting the affected communities back on their feet. Keep checking this page for the latest numbers, relief updates, and ways you can help.