Post by : Rameen Ariff

Communities across northern Afghanistan are racing to prepare for winter after a string of powerful earthquakes left thousands without homes. With limited shelter, few warm clothes and scarce supplies, families now face the prospect of life-threatening cold.

The most recent quake, measured at magnitude 6.3, hit Samangan and Balkh provinces and killed at least 27 people. The epicentre in Samangan’s Khulm district saw whole houses collapse into debris. Survivors such as Gulabuddin are mourning relatives while coping with injuries and the loss of possessions. “Winter is close. I have children aged four and five — where can we take them?” he asked, describing his family’s precarious situation.

Two months earlier a shallow magnitude-6.0 quake claimed more than 2,200 lives, ranking among the deadliest recent disasters in Afghanistan. In Kunar province, people including Bazarga Safay now live in overcrowded tents that offer little protection against harsh winter weather. Others, fearing aftershocks, opt to sleep outside, facing temperatures that may fall to -20°C (-4°F).

Humanitarian assistance has been limited. International agencies report a shortfall in aid after several major donors, including the United States, reduced funding. Some camps have been set up at the foot of Mazar Dara mountain, yet financial constraints or lack of alternatives mean about 77 percent of survivors plan to remain in their villages through the cold months.

Taliban authorities say rebuilding is under way and dozens of houses are planned, but observers on the ground report little visible progress. Survivors stress the need for stronger construction using concrete and brick to avoid repeat collapses. “We want to rebuild on the same plot but not the same way — only concrete will do,” said Sayid Wali Safay.

With heavy rains turning tracks to mud and winter temperatures closing in, the population faces twin hazards: lingering seismic activity and severe cold. Immediate deliveries of warm clothing, blankets and durable shelter are essential to prevent more deaths in the coming weeks.

#Global #Earthquake