Afghanistan: Magnitude-6.3 earthquake, aftershocks leave at least 2,050 people dead, as of Oct. 8 /update 3

Event

Local authorities confirmed on Oct. 8 that at least 2,050 people are dead and another 9,200 injured after a magnitude-6.3 earthquake and several strong aftershocks hit western Afghanistan near the city of Herat on Oct. 7. Authorities may update the official casualty count over the coming hours. At least six villages near the epicenter have reportedly been destroyed. The districts of Zinda Jan and Ghorian are worst affected. Telecommunications disruptions have been reported in the area following the temblors, which also reportedly destroyed hundreds of houses.

Additional emergency services are almost certain to remain in the province in the coming days if not weeks as recovery and reconstruction efforts occur. Disruptions to telecommunications are likely to persist and may take several days to restore, if not longer. Damage to infrastructure, including roads, is likely in the worst-affected locations and could disrupt ground travel. Health services are likely to be overwhelmed due to the large number of casualties. Disruptions to medical care are, therefore, likely. Power and water supply may also be disrupted.

Advice

Reconsider nonessential travel to the impact areas until the situation stabilizes. 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, particularly in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.