Flash floods in Afghanistan's eastern Nuristan province have killed 20 people and injured about 80 others. The provincial capital of Parun was hit particularly hard, with more than 100 people, including the mayor, reported missing. Search and rescue teams are currently racing to reach the region to locate those still missing.
Yousaf Hammad, spokesman for the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority, stated that the severe floods caused heavy loss of life and property, including extensive damage to homes, agricultural land, and public facilities. Government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid expressed sadness over the incident and wished for a speedy recovery for the injured. Authorities have urged all citizens to stay away from riverbanks and other flood-prone zones.
The country remains highly vulnerable to extreme weather, with factors such as climate change, deforestation, poor infrastructure, and decades of conflict amplifying the impact of disasters. In remote areas, homes built of mud offer limited protection against sudden deluges. Earlier in 2024, more than 300 people died in springtime flash floods, and at least 110 others were killed by widespread flooding and landslides.
Further extreme weather is forecast for 10 of the country's 34 provinces, according to the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation's meteorology department. Predictions include heavy rain, thunderstorms, and flash floods, as well as strong winds accompanied by dust and sand.