At least 250 people have died and more than 500 others have been injured in Afghanistan after a 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck the eastern region of the Taliban-controlled nation late on Sunday.

According to The New York Times, the earthquake occurred near Jalalabad, a city with an estimated population of 200,000, which is approximately 100 miles from the country’s capital, Kabul. The U.S. Geological Survey reported this information.

The aftershocks of the earthquake were felt across Jalalabad and its surrounding areas throughout the night, with the American environmental agency stating that its models predicted massive casualties and significant damage to structures in the region.

Sediqullah Quraishi Badloon, a communications official for Nangarhar Province, which includes Jalalabad, said that more than 250 people have died from the incident, noting that most of the casualties happened in neighbouring Kunar Province. He added that nine people were killed in Nangarhar.

Meanwhile, Zabihullah Mujahid, a government spokesman, confirmed on X in early Monday that mass casualties were recorded in the eastern part of Afghanistan due to the earthquake, adding that support teams were on their way.

“Sadly, tonight’s earthquake has caused loss of life and property damage in some of our eastern provinces,” said Mr Mujahid. “Local officials and residents are currently engaged in rescue efforts for the affected people. Support teams from the centre and nearby provinces are also on their way.”