Afghanistan was struck by a 4.9-magnitude earthquake on March 21, 2025, just days after a 4.0-magnitude quake on March 13. Experts warn that shallow quakes, like the latter, can cause more damage and that Afghanistan’s geographical location places it at high risk for such natural disasters. The recent quakes highlight the ongoing vulnerabilities in the region due to its active seismic conditions and socio-economic challenges.
On March 21, 2025, a 4.9-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan, occurring at a depth of 160 kilometers. This incident follows a previous quake recorded on March 13, which had a magnitude of 4.0 and a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, raising concerns about potential aftershocks. The National Center for Seismology reported the locations and timing of both earthquakes, highlighting Afghanistan’s seismic vulnerability.
Experts assert that shallow earthquakes, like the one on March 13, can be particularly damaging. This is due to their energy being released closer to the surface, which can result in stronger tremors and more extensive destruction. As a country that has faced prolonged conflict and underdevelopment, Afghanistan is further weakened by such natural disasters.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) identifies Afghanistan as especially prone to significant natural disasters, including earthquakes, landslides, and floods. The nation is situated within a highly active seismic area, specifically in the Hindu Kush region, where seismic events are frequent due to the complex interplay of tectonic plates beneath its surface.
The impact of an earthquake is influenced not only by its magnitude but also its depth. Shallower earthquakes generally result in stronger surface shaking and greater destruction. Afghanistan’s ongoing experiences with seismic activity are primarily due to its geographic position along multiple fault lines between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.
In summary, Afghanistan continues to experience seismic challenges, as evidenced by recent earthquakes of 4.9 and 4.0 magnitudes. The vulnerability of this region is exacerbated by its geographic location and the adverse effects of shallow earthquakes. Notably, experts emphasize the destructive nature of these tremors, which pose significant risks to the already struggling communities within the country.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
