The United Nations said Monday it was “deeply saddened” by the powerful earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan overnight and confirmed that its relief teams have reached affected areas to assist survivors.
In a statement posted on X, the U.N. said its aid includes emergency supplies and life-saving support.
“We are deeply saddened by the devastating earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan, killing hundreds and injuring many more,” the U.N. said. “Our teams are on the ground providing emergency assistance and life-saving support. We stand in solidarity with affected communities.”
The Taliban-run disaster management office in Kunar province said earlier that the death toll there had reached 500, with nearly 1,000 others injured. Officials warned the numbers could climb as many people remain trapped under rubble.
Taliban officials had initially reported 250 deaths in Kunar and nine in Nangarhar province, along with more than 500 wounded.
The quake struck shortly after midnight with a magnitude of 6.0. The epicenter was near Asadabad in Kunar province, at a depth of about 27 kilometers (17 miles).
