Hundreds killed in Afghanistan earthquake

A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan, leaving hundreds dead, Reuters writes.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake occurred overnight about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Jalalabad, near the border with Pakistan. Taliban officials confirmed the 6.0-magnitude tremor.

Mufti Abdul Matin Qani, Spokesperson for Afghanistan’s Interior Ministry, said 622 people were killed and more than 1,300 injured, many of whom are receiving medical treatment. The quake hit eastern provinces including Nangarhar, Jalalabad, and Kunar.

At least five aftershocks, ranging from 4.5 to 5.2 magnitude, were recorded in the region. Authorities warned that aftershocks could continue for days and may prove stronger than the initial quake.