03 Mar 2019 | 12:43 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Flash flooding leaves 20 dead in Kandahar province March 1-2
Heavy rain hits Kandahar province March 1, causing flash flooding and leaving at least 20 people dead and up to 2000 homes damaged as of March 2
Event
Heavy rain hit districts across Kandahar province on Friday, March 1, including Kandahar city, Zhari, Dand, Daman, Arghandab, Spin Boldak, and Takhtapu. Consequent flash flooding left at least 20 people dead as of Saturday, March 2; authorities estimate that up to 2000 homes have been damaged by flooding in Kandahar province, including some 600 homes in Kandahar city, forcing the evacuations of families from affected areas.
Lingering transportation and business disruptions are to be expected in Kandahar province over the coming days.
Advice
Individuals in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate flooding and consequent disruptions, and remember that walking or driving through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater and chemical products; all items having come into contact with floodwater should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.
The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
