Kashmar, June 19, 2024 — At least four people were killed and hundreds injured following a powerful earthquake that struck the city of Kashmar in northeastern Iran. The earthquake occurred around noon local time on Tuesday and was recorded at a magnitude of 4.9 on the Richter scale.

Iranian media outlet Iran International reported the casualties and extensive damage to the city. Many of Kashmar's older buildings suffered significant damage. Emergency services have admitted 35 of the injured to hospitals for treatment.

The US Geological Survey indicated that the earthquake's epicenter was 10 kilometers below the surface, adding to the intensity of the tremors felt on the ground.

This earthquake adds to the region's history of seismic activity. In 2023, a magnitude 5.9 earthquake in Iran's northwestern mountainous region resulted in three deaths and over 800 injuries. The recurrence of such events highlights the ongoing vulnerability of Iran to earthquakes, necessitating robust disaster preparedness and response strategies.

Rescue operations are underway, and authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage. The Iranian government has called for national support to aid the affected region and help rebuild the damaged infrastructure.