Afghanistan: Adverse weather forecast across central regions through at least March 23

Event

Severe weather is forecast across parts of central Afghanistan through at least March 23. As of early March 22, the Afghanistan Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across parts of Badghis, Bamyan, Daykundi, Faryab, Ghazni, Ghor, Helmand, Herat, Kabul, Kandahar, Kapisa, Khost, Kunar, Laghman, Logar, Nangarhar, Nuristan, Paktia, Paktika, Parwan, Sar-e Pol, Uruzgan, Wardak, and Zabul provinces. Rainfall totals of 2-4 cm (0.8-1.6 inches) are forecast. The heaviest precipitation is forecast over most of Badghis, southern Daykundi, western Faryab, southwestern Ghazni, southern Ghor, northwestern Kapisa, most of Kunar, eastern Logar, most of Nangarhar, eastern Paktia, Paktika, eastern Parwan, Uruzgan, and most of Zabul provinces, where red warnings have been issued. 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.

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 stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

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
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region.

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 officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Afghanistan Meteorological Department