5.4 magnitude earthquake hits Afghanistan’s Badakhshan province, no casualties reported

The earthquake was recorded early on Thursday in the Faizabad region, the capital of Badakhshan province in northeastern Afghanistan. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre confirmed that the earthquake had a magnitude of 5.4 and occurred at a depth of 200 km. The epicenter was located 32 km southeast of Jurm, a village home to approximately 12,000 people.

Local media reported that the quake was felt in several nearby towns and cities, including Ashkāsham, Ishqoshim, Faizabad, and Khandūd, but the shaking was mild and no casualties or property damage have been reported thus far.

Badakhshan province, known for its rugged terrain and seismic activity, has experienced multiple earthquakes in the past. This recent quake follows three significant tremors that struck western Afghanistan last year. These earlier earthquakes caused extensive damage and loss of life, heightening concern in the region about seismic risks.

While the immediate impact of the current earthquake appears to be minimal, authorities and residents remain vigilant. Given the history of destructive quakes in the region, local emergency services are on alert for aftershocks or additional seismic activity. (ILKHA)