A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck northern Afghanistan in the early hours of November 3, 2025. The quake affected the provinces of Balkh and Samangan, specifically near the town of Khulm and approximately 60 kilometers east of Mazar-i-Sharif.
The U.S. Mission to Afghanistan, currently operating from Doha, Qatar, issued an alert regarding the earthquake. The statement noted that all inquiries concerning U.S. citizens impacted by the event should be directed to AfghanistanACS@state.gov.
The alert reminded American citizens that the Travel Advisory for Afghanistan remains at level 4 (“Do Not Travel”) due to ongoing risks including civil unrest, crime, terrorism, wrongful detention, kidnapping, and limited health facilities. It also stated: “U.S. citizens are also reminded that the U.S. Embassy in Kabul suspended operations in 2021 and that the U.S. government’s ability to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan is very limited.”
The mission advised individuals in Afghanistan to avoid damaged areas and not enter buildings affected by the earthquake. Those currently in the country were encouraged to leave as soon as possible.
For assistance, individuals can contact State Department Consular Affairs at +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444. Travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates and alerts.
Additional information about travel conditions can be found on the Country Information Page.