A 4.9-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan, following a prior 4.0 event. Shallow earthquakes pose heightened risks, causing greater damage. Afghanistan’s vulnerability to such natural disasters is compounded by its geological characteristics and socio-economic challenges.
A recent 4.9-magnitude earthquake occurred in Afghanistan, as reported by the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The seismic event took place at a depth of 160 kilometers, with the epicenter located at latitude 36.48 N and longitude 71.45 E. This earthquake follows a previous event on March 13, which recorded a magnitude of 4.0 at a shallower depth of 10 kilometers, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity.
Shallow earthquakes, such as the one recorded on March 13, pose greater risks because their closer proximity to the Earth’s surface results in increased ground shaking and potential damage. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) emphasizes that Afghanistan is highly prone to natural disasters, exacerbated by its history of conflict and underdevelopment, leaving communities ill-equipped to handle multiple crises.
Afghanistan’s geological framework makes it susceptible to earthquakes, particularly in the Hindu Kush Mountain range, a seismically active area. The country lies on several fault lines between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. According to the Red Cross, this active tectonic setting leads to ongoing earthquakes each year, impacting already vulnerable populations who face compounded challenges from natural disasters and socio-economic instability.
In summary, Afghanistan continues to experience significant seismic activity, with the recent earthquake serving as a reminder of the geological challenges faced by the region. The shallow nature of the quakes raises concerns for structural damage and humanitarian impacts, particularly given the country’s ongoing struggles with disaster resilience. The interplay of tectonic dynamics further intensifies the risk of such events, necessitating ongoing vigilance and preparedness.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
