EASTERN REGION EARTHQUAKE UPDATE – The third week
21 September 2025
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Key Highlights
Three weeks after the 31 August earthquake, eastern Afghanistan remains in crisis. Updated figures indicate that at least 1,992 people have died, 3,631 are injured, and 15 remain missing, with women and children disproportionately affected1.
The IOM-led Multi-Sector Rapid Assessment (MSRAF), completed on 18 September, surveyed 134 of the hardest-hit 411 villages. Findings confirm that more than 77,000 families (502,000 people) are affected, with 8,496 homes destroyed or damaged and widespread loss of food stocks, livestock, and farmland.
As of 20 September, UNICEF-supported facilities have treated nearly 4,600 trauma cases, including 916 women and 812 children, with 330 major surgeries conducted. Seven makeshift health facilities provided 15,000 consultations, and 200 deliveries were safely managed.
In parallel, 2,500 children have been vaccinated against measles and polio.
UNICEF has reached more than 50,000 people with safe water and sanitation services, including daily trucking of 156,000 liters of chlorinated water, installation of 201 emergency sanitation facilities, and distribution of 1,532 family hygiene kits, 15,000 jerry cans, and 450,000 water treatment tablets.
While services are gradually being restored, the onset of winter poses a new threat. Families displaced in the open face compounded risks from cold, flooding, and food insecurity.
UNICEF requires US$21.6 million for its six-month plan. With US$6.4 million secured, a funding gap of US$15 million threatens life-saving winterization and child-focused support.
