On November 3, 2025, a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Northern Afghanistan at roughly 1 am, disrupting the country at its core. This tragedy killed roughly 20 people and injured over 600, according to BBC.com. Not only did this impact the people, but this quake took quite a few buildings down with it, one being part of Mazar’s historic Blue Mosque. This earthquake took place near Mazar-e Sharif, with its population exceeding 500,000. This city isn’t popular just because of where it is located, but because it is home to many famous and historical sites. This is not the first time Afghanistan has had a heavy-hitter earthquake. In late August of 2025, a 6.0 magnitude earthquake was recorded, and the tragedies were devastating, with a death toll of around 1,100. Afghanistan is a big target for earthquakes due to the fault lines of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. Not to mention, homes and buildings aren’t up to standard safety regulations, as they don’t have access to strong building materials. Due to this, a majority of homes are made of mud and timber; homes collapsed and caved in, leaving people trapped and helpless.
The Blue Mosque is a 15-century shrine used for the Islamic place of worship and pilgrimage. According to The New York Times, “15th-century Blue Mosque, whose iconic turquoise tiles fell from its minarets. Parts of its walls and historical writings were also destroyed in the quake.” This is devastating for the Islamic community, as this is a very sacred and historical site.
Not only is it devastating for the lives that were lost after this quake, but the cost to rebuild. There are costs to help people, feed and take care of the injured, and in hopes of fixing the Blue Mosque. Although not much damage was done to the Mosque, reports from the BBC have said that tiles and minarets have been cracked. Specific needs for funds have not been released by the Afghanistan government, but it is expected that roughly 140 million dollars will be needed to help rebuild the city.
Prayers go out to the families of loved ones, in hopes that there will be more survivors from this earthquake. Authorities continue to look for citizens, as many buildings have collapsed. There are tons of rubble to sort through, as people are stuck and trapped underneath. This earthquake is going to affect the community for a while, with the fall of the Blue Mosque and many citizens injured. Everybody needs to come together in hard times like these. Unity and compassion are all we can have for the Afghanistan people; have them in your prayers and wish the best for them.
