Earthquake Hits Central Afghanistan

An earthquake hit central Afghanistan today, killing at least seven people and wounding more than 30.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake had a 5.3-magnitude and its epicenter was in Samargan Province, some 190 kilometers northwest of the capital Kabul.

The deputy provincial governor, Ghulam Sakhi, said three districts in the area were particularly affected. There were fears the death toll could rise as access to one of the three districts was blocked because of damage caused by the quake.

compiled from agency reports