21 Mar 2023 | 08:23 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Authorities responding to aftermath of strong earthquake as of early March 22 /update 1
Authorities in Afghanistan, Pakistan responding to aftermath of magnitude-6.5 earthquake as of early March 22.
Event
As of early March 22, emergency crews in Afghanistan are responding to the aftermath of a strong magnitude 6.5 earthquake that occurred in Badakhshan Province at around 21:17 AFT on March 21. Several northern provinces in Pakistan and Afghanistan, as well as some northern states in India, have reported varying degrees of impact from the earthquake - with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, being the worse hit.
Reports indicate the earthquake has left at least two people killed in Afghanistan's Laghman Province and over 150 people injured in Swat and other areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province in Pakistan; the number of casualties is likely to be updated over the coming hours. Related landslides have also blocked several roadways, such as Abbottabad, Pakistan.
The earthquake's epicenter was approximately 40 km (25 miles) south-southeast of Jurm. The temblor struck at a depth of about 188 km (116 miles). Very strong-to-severe shaking was reported in locations near the epicenter, with moderate shaking experienced in more distant locations.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Disruptions could occur during such shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
Charge mobile and other electrical devices in advance and ensure backup batteries are available where needed. Plan for possible road travel delays due to malfunctioning or inoperative traffic lights in affected areas; exercise caution when driving in the impacted areas, especially during hours of darkness. Verify that security systems are working during power outages. Ensure that generators are functional and refuel equipment where necessary. Identify business-critical functions that require a power supply.
