13 Jan 2020 | 11:57 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Flashfloods leave 11 dead in Kandahar, Helmand January 12
Heavy rains, snow, and flash floods leave 11 dead, prompt road closures in Herat and Kandahar provinces January 12; additional flooding, road closures to be expected over the short term
Event
According to local officials, at least 11 people were killed and 22 others injured as of Sunday, January 12, following flash floods and landslides triggered by heavy rain and snowfall in the southern provinces of Helmand and Kandahar. Rescue operations are ongoing.
Road closures have been reported on all highways across Herat province and on the Kabul-Bamiyan highway since Saturday, January 11. It is not clear whether routes have been reopened as of Monday, January 13. The Afghanistan Meteorological Authority (AMA) has forecast rain and snowfall to continue over the coming days.
Further flooding, landslides, and power outages are likely in the affected regions over the coming days, as well as associated transportation and business disruptions.
Advice
Individuals in Herat and Kandahar provinces are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions and flight reservations before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult
