Delhi: Afghanistan experienced earthquake tremors measuring 4.9 magnitude on Saturday night at a shallow depth that increased the region’s vulnerability to aftershocks, the National Centre for Seismology reported.
The seismic event occurred at 10 kilometers depth, making the Afghanistan earthquake tremors particularly concerning due to their shallow nature, NCS stated in an official announcement. The relatively low depth classification placed the affected area at higher risk for subsequent seismic activity following the initial tremor.
Recent seismic activity in the region included a 4.2 magnitude earthquake on August 13 at the same 10-kilometre depth. An earlier tremor measuring 4.3 magnitude struck Afghanistan on August 8, also recorded at 10 kilometers below the surface.
Afghanistan Earthquake Tremors Pose Higher Risk Due to Shallow Depth
Shallow earthquakes typically present greater dangers compared to deeper seismic events because seismic waves travel shorter distances to reach the surface. The reduced travel distance results in more intense ground shaking, which increases the potential for structural damage to buildings and higher casualty rates in affected areas.
The National Centre for Seismology emphasized that shallow Afghanistan earthquake tremors generate more destructive surface vibrations than their deeper counterparts. Ground motion intensity remains stronger when seismic energy has less distance to dissipate before reaching populated areas and infrastructure.
Seismologists noted that the series of recent earthquakes in Afghanistan demonstrated ongoing tectonic activity in the region. The consistent 10-kilometer depth measurements across multiple recent events suggested similar geological conditions triggering the seismic disturbances.
The vulnerability to aftershocks remained elevated following Saturday’s earthquake tremors due to the shallow focal point and regional geological characteristics. Monitoring agencies continued tracking seismic activity patterns to assess potential follow-up tremors that could affect the same geographical area in the coming days.
