30 Dec 2022 | 03:31 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Adverse winter weather forecast across northern regions through at least Dec. 30
Heavy snowfall, strong winds forecast across parts of northern Afghanistan through at least Dec. 30. Salang Pass closed.
Event
As of early Dec. 30, authorities have closed the Salang Pass in northern Afghanistan to heavy trucks due to heavy snowfall and strong winds. Other vehicles are allowed to cross using tire chains. The pass connects northern Afghanistan with Parwan Province, with onward connections to Kabul Province, southern Afghanistan, and the Pakistani province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Afghanistan Meteorological Department has forecast snowfall through Dec. 30; further transport disruptions are possible.
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.
