A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan on March 21, 2026, flattening homes and killing at least 42 people, with more than 120 injured, according to the Afghan National Disaster Management Authority (ANDMA) and local hospitals. The epicenter was near Paktika province, a mountainous region where many homes are made of mud-brick, increasing vulnerability to tremors.
Residents reported a sudden, violent shaking that lasted several seconds, causing panic and forcing people into the streets. Rescue teams, hampered by damaged roads and aftershocks, have been working to reach remote villages and evacuate survivors.
Authorities warned of further aftershocks and urged caution while rebuilding collapsed structures. Local hospitals are overwhelmed, and aid organizations including the Red Crescent are providing emergency medical supplies, tents, and food for displaced families.
This quake is part of a series of seismic events affecting Central and South Asia in 2026, highlighting the ongoing risk to densely populated rural communities. Humanitarian officials have called for international support to help mitigate further casualties and assist survivors.
