Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan – A magnitude 6.3 earthquake jolts in northern Afghanistan on Monday.
The strong earthquake struck overnight that killed at least 20 people and injured more than 600 others, according to Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority.
Meanwhile, the US Geological Survey says the quake hit 28 kilometers deep with the epicenter near the city of Mazar-e-Sharif, shaking infrastructures and cutting power lines across several provinces.
The quake also damaged the country’s 15th century historic and holiest Blue Mosque in the city.
On the other hand, the United Nations organization and Indian government have deployed rescue teams and sent medical and relief supplies, respectively.
This latest natural disaster adds to the growing challenges faced by the country against drought, poverty, and mass deportations among others.
Last August the country was also hit by a 6.0 earthquake that killed more than 2,000 people.