Australia for UNHCR is appealing for urgent support after a powerful earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, killing hundreds of people and destroying entire villages.
“Families have lost everything – their loved ones, their homes, their livelihoods,” Australia for UNHCR spokesperson Lisa Upton said.
“Communities were already struggling with extreme poverty and hunger, severe drought and mass displacement. Now they face yet another devastating tragedy.”
The 6.0 magnitude quake hit around midnight near Jalalabad, with tremors felt as far as Pakistan. Kunar Province has been reported as the worst affected. De facto authorities estimate at least 800 people have been killed and more than 2,500 injured, though the numbers are expected to rise.
Up to 12,000 people are believed to have been directly affected, with access complicated by difficult terrain and blocked roads.
UNHCR has been working in Afghanistan for more than four decades and is on the ground responding. Together with partners, teams are dispatching tents and essential supplies to Kunar and surrounding areas.
“This disaster comes on top of multiple crises,” Ms Upton said. “UNHCR’s resources are stretched thin, but we are racing to deliver life-saving aid. Australians can help us get emergency shelter and vital supplies to families in desperate need.”
UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi called for urgent donor support, saying the earthquake “adds death and destruction to other challenges including drought and the forced return of millions of Afghans.”
Australia for UNHCR has launched an emergency appeal. Donations can be made at: https://www.unrefugees.org.au/emergency-response/afghanistan-emergency/
Notes for editors:
UNHCR spokespeople are available for interview from Kabul.
Media contact:
Kelsey Taylor | Senior Media & Communications Manager, Australia for UNHCR | [email protected] | +61 450 322 32
More about Australia for UNCHR
Australia for UNHCR supports vulnerable people fleeing conflict, disaster and persecution around the world. As the UN Refugee Agency’s partner in Australia, we mobilise individuals, community groups and businesses to support refugees and displaced people. Together, we advocate and fundraise for refugee protection, emergency aid and long-term support.