Kabul, 13 May 2024 (TDI): Flash floods in Afghanistan have devastated lives and livelihoods across over 16 provinces including Badakhshan, Ghor, Baghlan, and Herat. Death toll has reached up to three hundred along with thousands forced to flee their homes.
Reports indicate heavy rainfall caused flooding in Baghlan province, Afghanistan on Friday night. The death toll is disputed, with estimates ranging from over 150 according to Taliban officials to more than 300 by the World Food Program.
Social media images depict the devastation, showing floodwaters inundating homes in several villages. This follows weeks of unusually heavy rainfall in the country, which has led to deadly floods since mid-April.
Over 50 children are among the estimated hundreds killed in devastating floods. International aid organizations, including UNICEF, are mobilizing relief efforts. UNICEF reports a significant number of child fatalities.
Relief teams, medicines, blankets, and essential supplies are being deployed to the affected areas. The World Health Organization (WHO) has already provided 7 tons of medical supplies and emergency kits. 97 tonnes of medical supplies from the EU have also landed safely in Afghanistan.
Flash floods in Afghanistan have destroyed at least 2000 homes since April 2024. Three mosques and four schools were also affected. As per the IRC Report 2023, Afghanistan stands out to be 4th most vulnerable country to climate change.
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“These latest floods have caused a major humanitarian emergency in Afghanistan, which is still reeling from a string of earthquakes at the beginning of this year as well as severe flooding in March. Communities have lost entire families, while livelihoods have been decimated as a result,” said IRC Afghanistan director Salma Ben Aissa.
Local authorities report emergency personnel, including the army, are searching for survivors trapped under debris following the devastating floods in Baghlan province. The floods caused widespread damage, leaving families displaced and in need of assistance.
Tents, blankets, and food are being distributed to those who lost their homes. Transportation has been disrupted as the main road connecting Kabul to northern Afghanistan is closed.
