A 5.0-magnitude earthquake struck Afghanistan's Balkh province on February 18, 2024, according to the United States Geological Survey.

While the tremor was relatively strong, initial reports indicate no immediate damage or casualties.

The quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, roughly 30 kilometers west-southwest of Mazar-e-Sharif, the provincial capital.

Local authorities, including Balkh governor's spokesman Haji Zaid, confirmed the lack of immediate reports on social media.

This event comes months after a devastating series of earthquakes hit Afghanistan's western province of Herat in October 2023.

Those quakes, ranging in magnitude up to 6.3, claimed the lives of around 1,500 people and injured nearly 2,000, according to the United Nations.

While the situation in Balkh remains calm for now, authorities continue to monitor the situation for any potential developments.

The lack of immediate reports is a positive sign, but caution remains necessary as aftershocks are possible in the coming days. (ILKHA)