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4.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Afghanistan at Shallow, Dangerous Depth

A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck Afghanistan at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, making it more dangerous and susceptible to aftershocks. This event follows two other recent tremors in the region, a 4.2 and a 3.8 magnitude quake. Afghanistan is highly vulnerable to earthquakes due to its location on a major tectonic plate collision zone and an active fault line. Repeated seismic shocks compound the challenges for communities already grappling with conflict and underdevelopment, leaving them with minimal resilience.

Key Points: 4.1 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Afghanistan, Aftershocks Feared

  • 4.1 magnitude quake at 10 km depth
  • Shallow quakes cause stronger ground shaking
  • Follows recent 4.2 and 3.8 magnitude tremors
  • Afghanistan lies in highly active seismic zone
  • Communities face compounded disaster risks
2 min read

Earthquake of magnitude 4.1 strikes Afghanistan

A shallow 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan, following recent tremors. Experts warn shallow quakes cause stronger shaking and more damage.

"Shallow earthquakes are generally more dangerous than deep earthquakes. - National Center for Seismology"

Kabul, January 18

An earthquake of magnitude 4.1 struck Afghanistan on Sunday, a statement by the National Center for Seismology said.

The earthquake struck at a shallow depth of 10 km, making it susceptible to aftershocks.

In a post on X, the NCS said, "EQ of M: 4.1, On: 18/01/2026 07:05:58 IST, Lat: 33.74 N, Long: 65.70 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Afghanistan."

Shallow earthquakes are generally more dangerous than deep earthquakes. This is because the seismic waves from shallow earthquakes have a shorter distance to travel to the surface, resulting in stronger ground shaking and potentially more damage to structures and greater casualties.

Earlier on January 15, an earthquake of magnitude 4.2 struck the region at a depth of 96km.

In a post on X, the NCS said, "EQ of M: 4.2, On: 15/01/2026 13:08:48 IST, Lat: 36.36 N, Long: 71.28 E, Depth: 96 Km, Location: Afghanistan."

On January 14, another earthquake of magnitude 3.8 struck the region at a depth of 90 km.

In a post on X, the NCS said, "EQ of M: 3.8, On: 14/01/2026 13:19:43 IST, Lat: 36.47 N, Long: 71.16 E, Depth: 90 Km, Location: Afghanistan."

Afghanistan frequently experiences earthquakes, particularly in the Hindu Kush region, which lies in a highly active seismic zone, according to the Red Cross.

Afghanistan's vulnerability to earthquakes is linked to its location along the collision zone between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. A major fault line also passes through parts of the country, including the Herat region.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) notes that Afghanistan remains extremely vulnerable to natural disasters, including earthquakes, landslides and seasonal flooding. Repeated tremors worsen the situation for communities already struggling with decades of conflict and limited development, leaving them with minimal resilience to withstand multiple shocks.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The article mentions the Indian tectonic plate. It's a stark reminder that seismic activity in our entire region is interconnected. We in North India must also ensure our buildings are earthquake-resistant. Preparedness is key.
D
David E
Reading about the shallow depth and the history of quakes there is concerning. The science is clear – these are dangerous. I respect the work of the National Center for Seismology in tracking these. Accurate data saves lives.
A
Aman W
While the report is factual, it feels a bit detached. It lists magnitudes and depths but doesn't really convey the human impact on the ground in Afghanistan. News should connect more with the suffering of common people, yaar.
S
Shreya B
The Hindu Kush region is so seismically active. It's a double tragedy for Afghanistan – man-made and natural disasters. India has often provided aid in such situations. I hope humanitarian corridors remain open for help to reach.
K
Karthik V
Interesting to see the NCS posting detailed coordinates on X. Good use of social media for public awareness. The comparison between the 10km and 96km depth quakes really shows why the shallow one is more dangerous. Stay safe, everyone in the region.

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