04 May 2022 | 01:07 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across northern provinces as of May 4 /update 1
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of northern Afghanistan as of May 4. Further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of northern Afghanistan as of May 4 following days of heavy rainfall. Disaster management officials have reported that at least 12 people have been killed, with at least 18 people injured and seven others missing across 12 provinces. The floods have damaged around 260 homes and destroyed 19 others, and have damaged crops, killed livestock, and caused widespread infrastructure damage. Badghis, Baghlan, Faryab, and Parwan are among the worst-affected provinces.
The Afghanistan Meteorological Department issued a weather warning for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible flash floods affecting parts of Badakhshan, Badghis, Baghlan, Balkh, Bamyan, Daykundi, Faryab, Ghazni, Ghor, Jowzjan, Kabul, Kapisa, Khost, Kunar, Kunduz, Laghman, Logar, Nangarhar, Nuristan, Paktia, Paktika, Panjshir, Parwan, Samangan, Sar-e Pol, Takhar, and Wardak provinces May 2-4. Further rainfall is forecast predominantly in northeastern regions May 5-6. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Due to the arid nature of the region and poor stormwater management, even minor rainfall accumulations could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and dry riverbeds.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region, including but not limited to Kabul International Airport (KBL) and Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport (MZR).
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved; it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or debris is cleared. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads.
