Residents of Herat Face Terrifying Ordeal as Tremors Hit Near Iranian Border.
A devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck western Afghanistan on Saturday, causing widespread destruction and leaving at least 14 people dead and 78 others injured. The earthquake, which occurred around 11:00 local time (06:30 GMT), was centered approximately 40 km from the city of Herat, perilously close to the border with Iran.
According to reports from the US Geological Survey, the earthquake inflicted significant damage on several buildings in the area, trapping numerous individuals beneath the rubble. The initial earthquake was followed by at least three powerful aftershocks, intensifying the panic among residents.
Bashir Ahmad, a resident of Herat, shared his harrowing experience during the earthquake, stating, “We were in our offices and suddenly the building started shaking. Wall plasters started to fall down and the walls got cracks, some walls and parts of the building collapsed. I am not able to contact my family, network connections are disconnected. I am too worried and scared, it was horrifying.”
The tremors caused widespread panic, prompting Afghan officials to urge people to remain calm and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The quake led to the disruption of communication networks, leaving many unable to reach their loved ones, intensifying the anxiety among the affected population.
According to BBC News and The Guardian, a number of buildings were damaged in the earthquake, exacerbating the challenges faced by the rescue and relief teams. Efforts are underway to rescue those trapped under debris and provide medical assistance to the injured.
This remains a developing story, and our news portal will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Resources:
1.https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-67039463
2.https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-67039463