Afghanistan: Disruptions due to severe weather ongoing across many parts of the country as of March 1 /update 1

Weather-related disruptions are ongoing across many parts of Afghanistan following heavy snowfall, heavy rainfall, and cold temperatures in recent days. Authroities have reported at least nine weather-related fatalities across Badakhshan, Helmand, Herat, Jawjzan, Kandahar, and Sar-e-Pol provinces. Several homes have been damaged by the severe weather and dozens of livestock have been lost. As of March 1, many major routes are closed due to snowfall accumulations, flooding, or landslides, inclduing the Salang Pass on the Kabul-Kunduz Highway, the Haji Gak Pass in Bamyan Province, the Sabzak Pass between Baghdis and Herat provinces, and sections of the Kabul-Ghor and Kabul-Herat highways. Flight disruptions have been reported at some regional airports, including Faizabad Airport (FBD) and Qala-e-Naw Airport (LQN). Further heavy rainfall and snowfall and associated flooding and storms are expected across much of the country through at least March 3.

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 stormwater drainage systems. Sites located 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides are possible 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 affected areas.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

The disruptive weather may cause further delays and cancellations at airports. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.