Attachments
Balkh & Samangan, Afghanistan
Introduction
This Community Voices Bulletin serves as an inter-agency real-time accountability platform that consolidates insights from earthquake-affected communities in Balkh and Samangan provinces of northern Afghanistan. It is designed to inform humanitarian responders, the Sub-National Inter- Cluster Coordination Group (ICCG), the National Inter-Cluster Coordination Team (ICCT), and the Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) by highlighting affected people's immediate needs, priorities, and perceptions-particularly those of women and girls. The bulletin ensures that the ongoing earthquake response remains community-centered, inclusive, and accountable, enabling collective reflection and adaptation as recovery efforts continue.
Overview of earthquake impact
On 3 November 2025, a 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan, severely affecting Balkh and Samangan provinces and causing damage across neighboring Sar-e-Pul and Jawzjan. The quake resulted in 25 deaths and nearly 1,000 injuries, with the highest casualties reported in Balkh and Samangan.
Assessments confirmed damage to 795 houses, including 305 destroyed and 490 partially damaged. The worst-affected districts are Feroz Nakhchir, Khulm, and Hazrat Sultan in Samangan, and Sholgara and Marmul in Balkh. Many families remain in temporary shelters, facing harsh winter with limited access to essential services.