A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck northern Afghanistan early in the morning, with its epicenter near the city of Mazar-i-Sharif. According to the latest reports, at least 7 people were killed and around 150 were injured. There have been reports of damage in the historic district, including the Blue Mosque. The U.S. Geological Survey issued an orange alert, indicating a likelihood of significant casualties and widespread damage. Authorities have announced that reports on the extent of the damage will be released later. Social media has already shared videos of rescue efforts and damaged buildings, though Reuters has not yet been able to verify them. This is not the first major blow to the region: in 2023, an earthquake killed over a thousand people, and in 2015, several hundred.
