Natural disasters in Afghanistan leave at least 351 dead since late March

Afghanistan has been struck by a series of natural disasters since late March, claiming the lives of at least 351 people and injuring 436 others, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (ANDMA) of the Taliban government.

The incidents, including heavy rains, floods, earthquakes, roof collapses, lightning strikes, landslides, and storms, have devastated communities nationwide. The ANDMA reported that over 24,000 families have been impacted, with 2,321 homes completely destroyed and another 8,026 damaged. Additionally, 821 businesses suffered partial or total destruction, alongside significant damage to infrastructure such as 644 kilometers of roads, 365 water and electricity networks, and 660 bridges.

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From the month of Hamal (March 26) of the current year until now, incidents caused by rains, floods, earthquakes, roof collapses, thunders and lightning, landslides, and storms have unfortunately resulted in 351 martyrs (deceased) and 436 injured across the country.

Agricultural losses have also been substantial, with crops destroyed across 7,195 hectares of farmland and 4,585 orchards. More than 144,625 trees were lost, along with 2,866 head of livestock. Emergency response teams are currently distributing food and other forms of aid to affected communities. The ANDMA has urged residents to exercise caution, particularly near rivers and flood-prone areas, and to heed official warnings during adverse weather conditions.

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People should avoid rivers and flood-prone areas during rains and closely follow official warnings and guidelines.