A moderate 4.6 magnitude earthquake shook western Afghanistan early Friday morning, as confirmed by India’s National Center for Seismology (NCS). The seismic event occurred at 6:11 AM IST (2:41 AM local time) with its epicenter located about 50 km underground near coordinates 34.89°N latitude and 62.54°E longitude.

Key Details:

  • Magnitude: 4.6 (considered light to moderate)

  • Depth: 50 km (relatively deep, reducing surface impact)

  • Location: Western Afghanistan, approximately 300 km from Herat city

  • Current Status: No immediate reports of damage or casualties

This latest tremor follows a stronger 5.8 magnitude quake that hit the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border region on April 19, which was felt across northern India including Delhi-NCR and Kashmir. The April quake occurred at greater depth (86 km) and caused noticeable shaking but no major damage.

Why This Region?
The Hindu Kush mountain range where these quakes occurred sits at the collision point of the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates, making it one of Asia’s most seismically active zones. According to NCS data, the area typically experiences about 20-30 measurable quakes annually.

Safety Context:

  • 4.0-4.9 magnitude quakes: Often felt but rarely cause damage

  • 5.0-5.9 magnitude: Can damage poorly constructed buildings

  • Last major quake in region: October 2023 (6.3 magnitude, 2,000+ casualties)

Seismologists note that while Friday’s quake posed minimal risk, it serves as an important reminder of the region’s vulnerability. The lack of damage reports likely reflects both the quake’s moderate strength and its deep epicenter.