05 Jul 2022 | 02:02 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Adverse weather forecast across eastern, northern, and western regions through at least July 6
Severe weather forecast across parts of Afghanistan through July 6. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Severe weather, including heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, possible floods, dust storms, and strong winds, are forecast across parts of eastern, western, and northern, Afghanistan through at least July 6. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to impact eastern parts of the country, with strong winds and dust storms possible in western regions and Balkh Province in northern Afghanistan. The Afghanistan Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning stating rainfall totals of 1-3.5 cm (0.4-1.4 inches) are forecast over parts of Ghazni, Kabul, Kunar, Laghman, Logar, Nangarhar, Paktia, Paktika, and Zabul provinces. Dust storms and wind gusts of 20-90 kph (12-56 mph) are possible in parts of Badghis, Balkh, Farah, Herat, and Nimroz provinces. 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. Significant rainfall may be preceded by moderate winds and dust storms, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high levels of dust without rain.
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 affected regions.
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.
