Assalamu alaikum - Survivors of northern Afghanistan quake sleep outside as historic sites sustain damage
Assalamu alaikum. Survivors of the powerful earthquake in northern Afghanistan spent a freezing night outdoors, then dug through the wreckage of their homes to try to recover what they could. Rain is forecast for the area, which will make things even harder for families already without shelter. The 6.3 magnitude quake struck just before 1 a.m. local time Monday, about 22 km west-southwest of Khulm in Samangan province. Officials reported at least 27 people killed and around 956 injured.
Among the damaged sites is the revered Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif, a historic Islamic landmark whose minaret and walls suffered cracks and falling tiles. The Bagh-e Jahan Nama Palace in Khulm was also badly hit; parts of its surrounding wall and a tower collapsed and other sections developed deep cracks. Local cultural officials said these sacred and historical places urgently need repair, especially with cold weather and rain coming.
In Khulm, many families stayed outside overnight because aftershocks continued to frighten people. A local resident said they couldn’t sleep in the cold and were worried about more tremors. Authorities have distributed tents and basic supplies, but numerous homes were completely destroyed and household items remain buried under rubble. Women and children are especially vulnerable, with limited private spaces and few sanitation facilities available.
Rescue teams continued working in some areas, and health agencies reported damage to several medical facilities, including the collapse of a hospital laboratory that destroyed important equipment. Emergency health and rescue operations are ongoing, but resources are limited in many remote parts of the country. The poverty and construction standards in rural areas make response and recovery much harder.
Please remember the victims in your duas and consider donating through trusted Islamic charities that are working on the ground to provide shelter, food, medical aid, and restoration for damaged mosques and community sites. May Allah grant patience to those affected and make relief come quickly.
https://www.arabnews.com/node/