Afghanistan: Explosion kills at least 20 people and wounds 40 others at Abu Bakr al Sadiq Mosque in Khair Khana area of Kabul Aug. 17 /update 1

Event

Authorities are responding to an explosion that killed at least 20 people and wounded 40 others at the Abu Bakr al Sadiq Mosque in the Khair Khana area of Kabul Aug. 17. Casualty figures may rise in the coming hours. Taliban authorities did not immediately confirm the cause of the blast; no group immediately claimed responsibility for the incident.

Heightened security and consequent transport disruptions are likely in the impacted area until authorities' response concludes.

Advice

Avoid the scene of the blast. Plan for localized ground travel delays. Heed directives issued by local authorities and your home government.