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Powerful 6.3 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Afghanistan, Causes Damage to Mazar-e Sharif Shrine
4 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Mazar-e Sharif in Afghanistan
- Significant casualties and widespread damage likely, according to USGS
- Holy shrine of Mazar-e-Sharif sustained damage in the quake
On November 4, 2025, a powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Mazar-e Sharif, one of Afghanistan's largest cities. The U.S. Geological Survey issued an orange alert, indicating that significant casualties and widespread damage are likely.
The earthquake caused significant damage to the holy shrine of Mazar-e-Sharif, also known as the Blue Mosque, in Balkh province. Rescue efforts are currently underway to save those trapped under the rubble.
Afghanistan's location on two major active faults makes it particularly vulnerable to seismic events. In the past, similar earthquakes have required a regional or national-level response, and this latest quake is expected to be no different. Authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and casualties, with updates expected in the coming hours and days.
