UN teams have stepped up their response after another strong earthquake struck western Afghanistan early on Wednesday, just days after powerful earthquakes killed over 2,000 people in the same region.

United Nations.- The 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck near the city of Herat at 5:10 AM (00:40 AM GMT) local time, injuring over 100 people, many of whom were taken to hospitals, according to media reports.

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) launched a $14.4 million humanitarian aid on Friday to provide shelter, heaters, and warm clothing to survivors sleeping outdoors.

UNHCR also expects to provide legal assistance and advice, including help in retrieving and processing key documents for returning refugee and IDP households.

Meanwhile, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) earlier this week requested USD$20 million for emergency and trauma care for newborns and children.

The agency also requires funding to repair schools and healthcare facilities and provide psychosocial and mental health support to children and families.

The region was rocked by two massive earthquakes the past Saturday, followed by a series of aftershocks, including a major one on Wednesday that flattened several houses that were saved from the original quake.

Communities in the region were recovering from the effects of years of conflict, insecurity, and weather-induced disasters.

According to the UN, damage to health facilities is of the greatest concern after more than 580,000 people were left without medical care. (PL)