UNFPA Afghanistan Situation Report (Herat Province) #2: 09-10 October 2023

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Herat province in western Afghanistan on 7 October 2023, followed by aftershocks until 9 October. The earthquake epicenter was located 30 kilometers northeast of Zindajan district, the worst-affected area with 1,294 deaths, 1,688 injuries and 100 per cent of homes destroyed. Another 485 people (191 men and 294 women) are reported missing.

Priority needs identified include emergency health care, including maternal and reproductive health, mental health and psychosocial support, emergency shelter, non-food items (tarpaulins, blankets, clothes, and kitchen sets), WASH (latrines, potable water and storage containers), food assistance and protection.

UNFPA and its NGO partners have been providing maternal and reproductive health and psychosocial support on the ground.