A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake hit Kunar province in eastern Afghanistan late Sunday, killing at least 622 people and injuring more than 1,500, according to the Taliban-run interior ministry. The quake destroyed several villages, with some communities losing dozens of residents, Reuters reported.

Rescue operations are ongoing, with helicopters evacuating the injured and locals helping medical teams reach remote areas. The disaster adds to Afghanistan’s humanitarian challenges, including limited international aid, displacement, and shortages of food and medical supplies.

Experts warn the country remains highly vulnerable to earthquakes due to its location along the tectonic boundary of the Hindu Kush Mountains. So far, no international governments have offered direct assistance, according to Reuters.