Afghanistan Flash Floods Cause Severe Damage

May 11, 2024

Recently, Afghanistan was hit by severe flash floods following torrential rains, resulting in a tragic loss of life and extensive property damage. The most affected area was the northern province of Baghlan, where it was reported that more than 150 individuals lost their lives in a single day, with pervasive destruction across the province.

Scale of Impact and Government Response

The severity of the floods led to over 300 deaths in Baghlan as reported by the World Food Programme (WFP), with substantial injuries and destruction throughout the northern regions including Badakhshan, Ghor, and Herat provinces.

The Afghan Government, led by the Taliban’s Ministry of Interior Affairs, alongside various spokespeople, confirmed the high casualties and significant loss of property. Emergency was declared and Emergency measures, including food and medical aid distributions and evacuations, were organized by the Ministry of National Defense.

Response by International Bodies and Aid Distribution

In response to the crisis, international organizations such as the WFP and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have been active on the ground. The WFP distributed emergency food supplies, while the IOM provided disaster assessments, reporting extensive damage with thousands of homes destroyed or damaged, especially in the Baghlani Jadid district.

Challenges in Relief Efforts

Continuous light rains and the damaged infrastructure have complicated rescue and relief efforts. Emergency personnel, supported by the national army and police, have been actively searching for survivors and recovering bodies. The head of Baghlan’s natural disaster management department warned that the death toll might rise as ongoing rains could lead to further flooding.

About Baghlan province

Baghlan Province is located in northern Afghanistan. It’s significant both strategically and economically, primarily due to its position as a key transport route connecting various parts of Afghanistan and for its agricultural potential. Baghlan is known for its abundant natural resources, particularly coal and natural gas, alongside a variety of agricultural products like sugar beets, rice, and almonds. Historically, it has been a region influenced by Persian empires and later Islamic dynasties. It has also seen considerable conflict in recent decades, involving Soviet forces, the Taliban, and Afghan national forces.

About Flash floods

Flash floods are rapid and extreme flow of high waters into a normally dry area, or a rapid water level rise in a stream or creek above a predetermined level, occurring within hours of a causal event such as intense rainfall, dam breaks, or ice jams. Unlike regular floods, flash floods can happen with little or no warning, making them extremely dangerous.

Topographical, meteorological conditions and human activities can exacerbate the risk and intensity. Typically localized, flash floods can roll boulders, tear out trees, and destroy buildings and bridges, leading to significant environmental and economic impacts. Flash flood-prone areas are usually near rivers, urban areas, or steep terrains where water runoff is rapid.

« Previous Post Next Post »