IOM Warns of Severe Winter Risk After Deadly Earthquake Hits Northern Afghanistan

Over 500 families across five Afghanistan provinces were affected by a 6.3-magnitude earthquake, with Balkh and Samangan suffering the heaviest damage, the IOM reported Wednesday.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said 512 families were affected by the earthquake across five northern Afghanistan provinces, mainly Balkh and Samangan.

At least 21 people were killed and over 800 injured, while Taliban authorities later raised the toll to 27 dead and 956 wounded.

The disaster struck as Afghanistan faces mass refugee returns, economic collapse, and a severe housing shortage ahead of the harsh winter season.

Survivors urgently need shelter, heating, clean water, medical care, and cash assistance, with women and disabled people among the most vulnerable.

IOM warned that limited funding threatens relief operations, though it aims to assist up to 5,000 families with emergency supplies and psychological support.

Joint UN assessment teams, including female staff, are currently operating in Balkh and Samangan to identify needs and coordinate immediate humanitarian interventions amid logistical challenges.

With freezing temperatures approaching and aid budgets shrinking, international agencies warn that without swift action, northern Afghanistan could face a new wave of deaths from exposure and disease.

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