Afghanistan: Further rainfall and flooding likely across much of country through at least mid-April after flash floods kill 33 people as of April 14

Further rainfall and flooding are likely across much of Afghanistan through at least mid-April. Three days of heavy rainfall and consequent flash flooding had reportedly killed at least 33 people and injured 27 others across the country as of April 14. Heavy rainfall has affected at least 20 of the country's 34 provinces, including Kabul Province; Farah, Herat, Kandahar, and Zabul provinces are among those that have sustained the most damage. The flooding has reportedly affected more than 1,000 families, killed hundreds of livestock, and damaged agricultural land, roads, and hundreds of houses. Additional casualties and material damage will likely be reported over the short term, especially in the event of further severe flooding.

Authorities could issue evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block rail lines; freight train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that experience heavy rainfall and track inundation. Weather-related flight disruptions are also possible, including at Kabul International Airport (KBL).

Localized business disruptions are possible, especially in low-lying and riverine areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites. Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or landslides, could persist well after weather 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.

Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.