A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck northern Afghanistan (Balkh province and neighbouring areas), resulting in at least 20 deaths and hundreds of injuries.
Why it matters:
- The region is vulnerable to seismic events and the infrastructure remains fragile.
- With winter approaching, the impact on displaced people, relief logistics and recovery will be severe.
What to watch: The final death/injury toll, how the government and international aid respond, and potential aftershocks.