Afghanistan: Casualties and damage after earthquakes in the northwest, Oct. 7 /update 1

Event

At least 15 people have been killed, 78 injured and infrastructure damaged in northwestern Afghanistan following a magnitude-6.3 earthquake and several aftershocks early Oct. 7. Telecommunication disruptions have also been reported in the area. The epicenter was located near Herat. Authorities may update casualty and damage reports in the coming hours.

Disruptions to telecommunications, public transport and business operations are likely in worst-affected areas in the coming days as emergency services respond to the incident.

Advice

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.