A 4.1-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan early Friday, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). Authorities confirmed that the situation remains normal, with no immediate reports of casualties or damage.
The tremor occurred at 12:14 am IST on December 19 and was recorded at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres, a factor that can intensify ground shaking. The earthquake’s epicentre was located at latitude 36.76°N and longitude 72.08°E, within Afghan territory.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, the NCS noted that shallow earthquakes are generally considered more impactful, as seismic waves reach the surface with greater force and may increase the likelihood of aftershocks.
Recent Seismic Activity in the Region
Earlier this week, on December 15, Afghanistan experienced another earthquake measuring 4.0 magnitude at a depth of 22 kilometres, with its epicentre near latitude 36.71°N and longitude 71.58°E.
Afghanistan Lies in a Seismically Active Zone
Afghanistan is located in a highly active seismic region, particularly around the Hindu Kush, which sits along a major tectonic collision zone between the Indian and Eurasian plates, according to the Red Cross. Several fault lines, including those near Herat, make the country prone to frequent earthquakes.
The latest tremor comes weeks after a powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan on November 4, killing at least 27 people and injuring hundreds. That quake caused widespread structural damage, including to a historic mosque.
Ongoing Vulnerability to Natural Disasters
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) has repeatedly warned that Afghanistan remains highly vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides.
Experts note that recurring seismic activity places added strain on communities already facing challenges due to limited infrastructure, economic hardship, and prolonged instability, reducing their ability to recover from successive natural shocks.
