08 Dec 2022 | 02:25 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Adverse winter weather forecast across northeastern regions through at least Dec. 10
Heavy snowfall forecast across parts of northeastern Afghanistan through at least Dec. 10. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Heavy snow and rainfall are forecast across parts of northeastern Afghanistan through at least Dec. 10. The Afghanistan Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy snowfall across parts of Badakhshan, Takhar, Baghlan, Panjshir, Kunduz, Balkh and Samangan provinces. Snowfall amounts of 10-30 cm (4-12 inches) are forecast across the affected area, as well as rainfall totals of 1-2 cm (0.2-0.8 inches). The heaviest snowfall is across parts of northern Badakhshan Province, where red (the highest level on a three-tier scale) warnings are in place. Orange and yellow warnings are in place across the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the affected area over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in the affected area.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
