A devastating earthquake hit eastern Afghanistan late Sunday night, leaving more than 250 people dead and at least 500 others injured, officials confirmed. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake struck at 11:17 PM local time, with its epicenter located 27 kilometers northeast of Jalalabad. The tremor, registering 6.0 on the Richter scale, had a shallow depth of just 8 kilometers, intensifying its destructive impact. Afghanistan’s Ministry of Information reported severe casualties across several districts of Kunar province, including Nurgal, Sawkai, Watapur, Manogi, and Chapa Dara. Authorities fear the death toll could rise further as many remote areas remain cut off, and rescue teams are still struggling to reach those locations. Locals described it as one of the strongest quakes to hit the region in recent years. Meanwhile, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said local officials and residents have begun rescue operations, while additional relief teams from neighboring provinces are on their way to assist.