23 Aug 2022 | 07:07 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Fatalities reported due to flooding across eastern regions as of early Aug. 23
Fatalities reported due to flooding across parts of eastern Afghanistan early Aug. 23. Further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Fatalities have been reported due to flooding following days of heavy rainfall across parts of eastern Afghanistan as of early Aug. 23. According to disaster management authorities, at least 20 people have been killed and 35 others injured in flash floods across Logar Province since Aug. 20. The death toll is likely to rise as search and rescue operations progress. Flooding has also destroyed at least 3,000 homes.
Further heavy rainfall is forecast across eastern provinces in the coming days. As of early Aug. 23, the Afghanistan Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning stating that heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and possible flash floods are possible over parts of eastern Afghanistan through at least Aug. 24. Red warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) are in place over parts of far eastern Badakhshan, southern Ghazni, Khost, Logar, Paktia, Paktika, and Zabul provinces. Orange 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. Heavy rainfall is likely to exacerbate the situation and hamper rescue, recovery, and relief efforts.
Authorities have reported at least 170 fatalities due to floods and flash floods, mainly in the eastern portions of the country, since late July.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 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.
