Afghanistan: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Oct. 25

Adverse weather is forecast across much of Afghanistan through at least Oct. 25. Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, possible flooding, and strong winds are expected across parts of the country over the coming days, with snowfall expected in some mountainous areas. The Department of Meteorology of the Ministry of Transportation and Aviation has issued a warning for heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible dust storms across much of the country Oct. 22. Showers, thunderstorms, and snowfall in mountainous areas are expected across much of northern and parts of eastern Afghanistan, with strong winds likely in central, northern, southern, and western Rainfall totals of 1.5-4 cm (0.6-1.6 inches) may generate possible flash flooding in parts of Badghis, Balkh, Bamyan, Faryab, Ghor, Herat, Kunar, Kunduz, Jowzjan, Nangarhar, Samagnan, and Sar-e-Pol, provinces. The heaviest precipitation is forecast across parts of far northeastern Faryab and northern Jowzjan provinces; red warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) are in place for these areas. Orange and yellow warnings are in place across the rest of the affected area. Strong winds gusting up to 80 kph (50 mph) are expected across central, northern, southern, and western provinces and may generate dust storms in arid areas. The Ministry of Energy and Water has also warned of possible flooding and rising river levels across eastern and northeastern regions and parts of northern and north-central Afghanistan due to heavy precipitation over the coming days.

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

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 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. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant winds, flooding, or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, railways, 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. Heavy snow will likely 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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.