14 Jul 2022 | 06:02 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Adverse weather forecast across the eastern and central regions through at least July 14. Flooding ongoing since July 5
Thunderstorms and heavy rain forecast across eastern and central Afghanistan through at least July 14. Flooding ongoing since July 5.
Event
Severe weather, including heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and possible floods, is forecast across parts of eastern and central Afghanistan through at least July 14. As of July 13, the Afghanistan Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning, stating that rainfall totals of 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 inches) are forecast over parts of Khost, Kunar, Laghman, Logar, Nangarhar, Nuristan, Paktya, and Paktika provinces. Red warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) are in place over southern Khost Province while orange and yellow warnings are in effect over the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of central and eastern Afghanistan as of July 13 following days of heavy rainfall. Disaster management officials have reported at least 39 fatalities across Ghazni, Nuristan, Paktya, Uruzgan, and Zabul provinces since July 5 while at least 14 others have been wounded. Critical infrastructure as well as around 2,900 houses have been damaged. The heavy rainfall displaced two unexploded ordnances (UXOs) into several villages in Paktya Province; controlled explosions of the mines prevented further casualties. Sustained heavy rainfall is likely to increase the risk of unearthed explosives.
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.
