Eastern Region Earthquake Response Plan
Sept 2025 – March 2026
About
On 31 August 2025 at 23:47 local time, a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan (Kuz Kunar District, Nangarhar Province), followed by over 17 aftershocks of magnitude 4.0 and above through 7 September, including significant shocks of M 5.5, M 5.6, M 6.2, and M 5.4. The shallow depth, mountainous terrain prone to landslides, and widespread use of mudbrick and unreinforced masonry housing amplified the destruction. Entire villages were damaged or destroyed, and repeated shocks have collapsed weakened structures. Rockfalls and landslides continue to cut off access to several districts, while many families remain displaced outdoors due to fear of further collapses.
As of 6 September, the de facto authorities (DfA) confirmed 2,205 deaths, including 731 children (393 girls, 338 boys), and more than 3,640 were injured. At least 6,700 houses have been partially or fully destroyed. Over 500,000 people are affected, of whom 263,000 are children. Inter-agency rapid assessments in 30 communities confirmed 19,781 children affected (10,299 girls, 9,482 boys), 45 unaccompanied and separated children (UASC), and 271 orphaned children. These figures highlight the disproportionate impact on children and the urgent need for child-focused protection and services.
