Afghanistan: Earthquake - Jan 2022

A 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck in Qadis District, Badghis Province in the Western Region of Afghanistan at 16:10 local time (UTC+4:30) on 17 January 2022. The earthquake was preceded by a smaller earthquake and was felt in Badghis, Ghor and Hirat Provinces. The earthquake reportedly resulted in human casualties and damages to homes and infrastructure in Qadis District, Badghis Province […] Initial reports indicate that 26 people were reportedly killed, four people injured, and hundreds of houses were damaged or destroyed. Heavy rains in the area prior to the earthquake reportedly rendered mud brick houses more vulnerable to damage. (OCHA, 18 Jan 2022)

The preliminary estimate by the inter-agency team is that up to 1,000 houses were damaged or destroyed by the earthquake. According to the information received from the local sources, the number of deaths due to the earthquake have risen to 27 people. People in affected areas are using water wells that are unsafe. In Badrawak village, there are concerns for the potential of landslides on hills on both sides of the community with a population of 2,520 people (360 families). On 20 January, another earthquake struck in the areas, leading to the death of one person. Residents in the area remain very concerned about further earthquakes. Many are too afraid of going into their homes and are currently living under the makeshifts/traditional tents in cold weather conditions. As of 20 January, the joint assessment team has assessed 742 families and identified 434 families requiring humanitarian aid, while further assessments are ongoing within the affected areas. (OCHA, 21 Jan 2022)

Due to the winter season, the areas affected had experienced rain for two days before the initial earthquake, with temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, compromising the structural integrity of the building structures, which are mostly made from mud. Those who have either lost their houses or have had their houses damaged by the earthquake face an extreme environment. At the same time, they are also coping with a lack of access to food, winter supplies, and an economic downturn. The anticipated needs of the affected population, which are currently being assessed and confirmed are food, clean water, shelter, sanitation facilities, hygiene items and household items. As of 22 January, based on the latest update, 1,254 households were assessed by the joint assessment team, out of which 834 households were identified for assistance. (IFRC, 27 Jan 2022)