Afghanistan earthquake death toll rises to 20, injures 320

ISLAMABAD, Nov 3 (KUNA) -- The death toll of the 6.3 magnitude earthquake that struck Afghanistan's northern Balkh and Samangan province early Monday has risen to 20, while 320 others were injured, said the health ministry.
According to a statement issued by spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Sharafat Zaman, preliminary reports indicate that more than 20 people have been killed and 320 injured in Samangan and Balk provinces.
The United States Geological Survey measured the magnitude of the earthquake as 6.3, at a depth of 28 kilometers with its epicenter in Khulm district of Balkh province.
Tremors were felt in different parts of the country including capital city Kabul, Baghlan, Samangan, Balkh, and Kunduz provinces. The victims have been transferred to nearby hospitals for treatment while the rescue operations are ongoing.
The spokesperson expressed fear that the death toll may rise as more information becomes available.
Medical teams have reached the area, and the ministry ordered all nearby hospitals to remain on high alert, the official added.
In a statement, the Afghan Ministry of Defense said that rescue teams and emergency units from the 209th Al-Fath Army Corps have arrived at the affected areas and begun rescue operations, evacuation of the injured, and support for affected families.
Afghanistan's power supply company DABS said imported electricity lines from Uzbekistan had been cut off due to the earthquake, leaving parts of nine Afghan provinces without power.
Earlier in August, over 2,200 people were killed and thousands others wounded in a strong earthquake that struck eastern Afghanistan. (pickup previous) sbk.gta