The Taliban government said on Monday that a powerful earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, killing at least 800 people and injuring more than 2,500 others.

A 6.0 magnitude earthquake hit Kunar Province near Jalalabad late Sunday, causing widespread destruction that devastated entire villages, while survivors tried to assist rescue teams in searching for those trapped under the rubble.

Rescue operations continued throughout Monday, with helicopters transporting the injured to hospitals, while blocked roads hindered aid delivery. Officials warned that the death toll could rise as some remote areas remain cut off.

The United Nations and relief groups indicated that the disaster has worsened the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. Residents in Pakistan also felt the tremors, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offering condolences and assistance.