5.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Afghanistan; Tremors Felt

An earthquake measuring 5.8 on the Richter scale struck southern Afghanistan late on Thursday night, September 4, 2025, with its epicenter located at a depth of 160 kilometers. The quake's origin was near latitude 34.58 N and longitude 70.66 E in the Hindu Kush region. Tremors from this seismic event were felt across a wide area, including parts of northern India such as Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi-NCR, and even parts of Pakistan, causing momentary alarm but no reported casualties or significant damage in these neighboring areas.

This earthquake is part of a series of seismic activities that have affected Afghanistan recently. It followed a more devastating quake over the past weekend that registered a magnitude of 6.0, which caused significant destruction and loss of life—over 2,200 deaths have been reported, and thousands injured, particularly in the Kunar and Nangarhar provinces. Aid efforts continue amid challenges posed by the rugged terrain and ongoing seismic events.

The tremors felt in India and Pakistan serve as a reminder of the interconnected nature of seismic risks in this region. The depth of 160 kilometers allowed the earthquake's energy to spread over a larger area, reaching neighboring countries and causing brief shaking in cities distant from the epicenter. People in Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi, and surrounding regions experienced shaking of buildings lasting just a few seconds, enough to prompt some residents to step outdoors as a precaution, but authorities confirmed no structural damage or injuries at this time.

From a broader perspective, this earthquake highlights the vulnerability of the mountainous Hindu Kush and surrounding regions to seismic events due to tectonic activity. Afghanistan lies in a complex zone where the Indian plate subducts beneath the Eurasian plate, causing frequent earthquakes. The structural resilience of buildings in these areas varies, often making them susceptible to damage during strong quakes.

For India and Pakistan, feeling tremors from such earthquakes underscores the importance of preparedness even for seismic events originating outside their borders. It raises public awareness about the need for timely earthquake drills, robust construction standards, and effective emergency response planning to mitigate risks associated with such natural hazards.

In conclusion, while this 5.8 magnitude earthquake in Afghanistan caused no reported harm in India and Pakistan, it intensifies concerns about seismic safety in the region. The continuing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan following recent large earthquakes calls for sustained attention and support from the global community. Residents in affected areas are reminded of the unpredictable nature of earthquakes and the importance of preparedness in minimizing damage and safeguarding lives.

With inputs from agencies

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