Why Afghanistan Faces So Many Deadly Earthquakes

Post by : Saif Nasser

A strong earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale struck near the northern Afghan city of Mazar-e-Sharif early Monday morning, killing at least seven people and injuring more than 150. The disaster came only two months after another powerful quake in August killed over 2,200 people and left thousands homeless. The repeated destruction has once again raised a serious question — why is Afghanistan hit by earthquakes so often, and why are they so deadly?

Afghanistan sits in one of the world’s most dangerous earthquake zones. The country’s land lies at a meeting point of several major tectonic plates — pieces of the Earth’s crust that move slowly under the surface. The Indian plate pushes northward and collides with the Eurasian plate, while the Arabian plate presses from the south. These constant movements create pressure deep underground, which releases suddenly in the form of earthquakes. Because of this natural setup, Afghanistan is among the most quake-prone countries in Asia.

Scientists say this movement of the Earth’s plates has shaped Afghanistan’s famous mountains, but it also makes the country highly unstable. The northward thrust of the Indian plate against the Eurasian plate causes frequent tremors across the region. Studies show that since 1990, Afghanistan has experienced at least 355 earthquakes stronger than magnitude 5.0. Every year, earthquakes kill an average of 560 people and cause about 80 million dollars in damages.

The danger is greatest in the eastern and northeastern parts of the country, where the shaking is most severe. Areas along the borders with Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan face the highest risk. Kabul, the capital city, is also vulnerable because of its dense population and weak buildings. Researchers estimate that Kabul suffers an average of 17 million dollars in earthquake-related damage each year. In mountain areas, the danger becomes even worse because earthquakes often trigger landslides that destroy homes, roads, and farmlands.

Afghanistan’s earthquake history is filled with tragedy. Since 1900, the country has recorded around 100 damaging quakes. One of the deadliest occurred in 1998, when two massive earthquakes struck within three months. The first killed about 2,300 people, and the second took nearly 4,700 lives. In 2015, a 7.5-magnitude quake hit northern Afghanistan, killing almost 400 people across Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. In 2022, another earthquake of magnitude 6 destroyed villages in the Paktika and Khost provinces, killing about 1,000 people. And in 2023, a series of back-to-back quakes again killed around 1,000 people, reducing several communities to rubble.

Experts say that part of the reason Afghanistan’s earthquakes are so deadly is not only the strength of the tremors but also the weakness of the buildings. Most houses in rural areas are made of mud bricks or stones without strong foundations. These types of structures collapse quickly during even moderate shaking. In cities, many buildings were not built using earthquake-resistant designs. Poverty and years of war have made it difficult for people to rebuild safer homes.

The lack of modern safety systems adds to the risk. Afghanistan does not yet have an advanced earthquake monitoring or early warning network. This means that people often get no warning before the ground starts shaking. Hospitals, schools, and government buildings are often unprepared for such disasters. The country also struggles to respond quickly after quakes because of damaged roads, poor communication, and limited rescue equipment.

Experts believe Afghanistan can reduce future damage if it takes a few key steps. First, new buildings should be constructed using earthquake-resistant designs that can withstand shaking. Engineers recommend using stronger materials such as reinforced concrete and steel frames. Older buildings can also be made safer by retrofitting them — strengthening walls, roofs, and foundations. These measures, though costly, can save thousands of lives.

Second, the country needs a proper earthquake monitoring system. By using geospatial technology, remote sensing, and fault-line mapping, scientists can identify which areas are most at risk. With this information, communities in danger zones can be relocated to safer places. A national early warning system can also send alerts before the shaking starts, giving people time to take shelter.

Public education is another important step. Many people in Afghanistan do not know what to do during an earthquake. Schools, mosques, and local organizations can help teach people simple safety rules — like taking cover under a table, moving away from windows, and going to open spaces after the shaking stops. Awareness can save lives when technology and infrastructure are limited.

Some international organizations have already started helping Afghanistan prepare for disasters. The United Nations and the World Bank have launched projects to study the country’s fault lines and train engineers in safer construction methods. However, experts say much more needs to be done. With poverty still widespread and decades of conflict weakening the country’s institutions, progress is slow.

Despite these challenges, scientists remain hopeful that small changes can make a big difference. Building safer schools and hospitals, creating emergency response teams, and strengthening community awareness can help reduce future loss of life. Earthquakes cannot be stopped, but their impact can be managed with better planning and stronger structures.

The story of Afghanistan’s earthquakes is not just about nature’s power — it is also about human resilience. Every time disaster strikes, Afghan families rebuild their homes and lives from the ground up. With global support and stronger safety efforts, experts believe the country can face the next quake with greater strength and fewer losses.