14 Mar 2022 | 01:20 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Adverse weather forecast across northeastern regions through at least March 16 /update 1
Heavy rain, snow, and possible flash floods forecast across parts of northeastern Afghanistan through March 16. Disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall, snowfall, and possible flash floods are forecast across parts of northeastern Afghanistan through at least March 16. The Afghanistan Meteorological Department has issued red (the highest level on a three-tier scale) snow, rain, and flash flood warnings for far northern Badakhshan Province March 14. Orange snow, rain, and flash flood warnings have been issued across the rest of northern and northeastern Badakhshan and across southern Takhar Province. Rainfall and snowfall amounts of 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) are possible in the affected areas. Although the weather warning only covers up to March 14, further precipitation is forecast in the affected region through March 16 and could exacerbate the situation in areas where flooding or disruptions do occur. 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 or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
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. Avalanches are possible in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall.
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
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.
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 debris is cleared. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads.
