Afghanistan Earthquake Leaves Over 2,000 Dead and Wounded

Casualties from the powerful earthquake that struck western Afghanistan on Saturday have risen to at least 2,053 dead and wounded, according to the latest figures released by the Taliban authorities. In an initial assessment, the Afghan Red Crescent Society reported 400 deaths. The death toll is feared to be even higher as rescue teams continue to reach civilians buried under the ruins.

Lack of access to information and the Taliban’s restrictions on free media have proven reporting the true magnitude of the disaster challenging as local sources struggle to corroborate figures and verify information.