As a result of strong winds and thunderstorms hitting Afghanistan’s provinces of Kandahar, Herat, Ghor, and Takhar, six individuals lost their lives, and 11 others sustained injuries. The Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority (ANDMA) reported that the severe weather led to the destruction of roads, wells, agricultural land, trees, and numerous solar panels. ANDMA spokesperson Mohammad Yousuf Hamad mentioned that the casualties occurred due to thunderstorms, lightning, storms, and floods in various provinces, with 20 houses completely destroyed and 10 partially damaged.
Residents affected by the calamity have called on authorities to address the challenges faced by their regions. Mir Hamza, a resident of Helmand, emphasized the extensive devastation caused by the storm, including the destruction of electricity poles, and urged the government to intervene promptly. The impact of the storms also resulted in power outages as all electricity poles were reportedly destroyed, leaving residents without electricity supply.
The statement released by ANDMA revealed that since March 26, Afghanistan has witnessed 250 fatalities, 344 injuries, and 17,000 families affected by natural disasters. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) highlighted the plight of around 2,000 families impacted by recent floods in Nangarhar province, with emergency relief items being distributed to those in need. The IOM further stated that humanitarian teams are assessing urgent requirements in flood-affected areas, where many individuals have lost their homes, agricultural land, and household possessions.
Humanitarian efforts are underway in Nangarhar, with additional assistance planned for 250 more families. Similar aid operations are being carried out in Laghman and Kunar, where recent flooding has caused damage to both residents and infrastructure, as per the IOM.
