Afghanistan Earthquake Tragedy: How to Help

Overnight, a powerful earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, killing at least 1,000 people and leaving more than 1,500 others injured, per the country’s state-run media.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the 5.9-magnitude earthquake occurred around 1:30 a.m. local time. It was felt across most of the country, including in the capital, Kabul. And because it took place near the border of Pakistan, the country was also affected.

ABC News reported that the earthquake destroyed hundreds of homes and other structures, and resulted in a near total blackout. Many of the villages hit are located in remote areas with little access to outside resources or communication.

As of now, there are few images of the destruction, and the death toll is expected to rise, per UNHCR, as victims are thought to be trapped under the rubble.

Rescue teams on the ground and via helicopter remain at the scene and are helping transport the injured to health centers, per the Afghanistan Ministry of Defense.

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Though we don’t yet know the full magnitude of the disaster, here are some ways you can help those affected.

• Donate to the Afghanistan Crisis Appeal. The Islamic Relief response team is currently stationed at Paktika province, the area most affected by the earthquake, and will provide food, monetary aid, and shelter.
• Donate to UNICEF. The United Nations agency has dispatched several mobile health and nutrition teams to provide first aid to those injured in the earthquake. It is also distributing critical aid, including kitchen equipment, hygiene supplies (like soap, detergent, towels, sanitary pads, and water buckets), warm clothes, shoes, blankets, tents, and tarpaulins, to those in need.
• Donate to OCHA: The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is delivering medical supplies—including health kits, surgical kits, and medicine to treat the wounded—to the earthquake-affected areas.

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