Afghanistan Flash Floods Kill 20, Over 100 Missing in Nuristan

Flash floods swept through Parun, the capital of Afghanistan's eastern Nuristan province, killing at least 20 people and leaving more than 100 missing, authorities reported Monday. The disaster, triggered by heavy rainfall, inundated homes, roads, farmland, and public infrastructure in Parun and surrounding communities.

Hafiz Mohammad Yousuf Hamad, spokesperson for Afghanistan's National Disaster Management Authority (ANDMA), confirmed the casualties and stated that search and rescue operations were actively underway. Emergency teams are working to locate those missing amidst flood debris and in the wider affected areas. The floods carried rocks and debris, causing extensive destruction to residential buildings, a hotel, and critical infrastructure.

Nuristan, a remote and mountainous province bordering Pakistan, is particularly susceptible to flash floods due to its rugged terrain and intense seasonal rainfall. This difficult geography is currently complicating rescue efforts and the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to the affected population. Afghanistan frequently experiences flash floods and landslides during its rainy season, with extreme weather events causing significant casualties and damage in recent years.

Authorities have warned that the death toll could potentially rise as rescue teams continue their search in affected areas and attempt to reach more remote communities. The full extent of the damage and the final number of missing persons are still being determined.

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At least 20 people have been killed, 80 injured, and many more remain missing following the devastating floods that struck today in Nuristan, Afghanistan.