Afghanistan weather disasters kill 148, injure 216 in two weeks

At least 148 people have been killed and 216 injured across Afghanistan in the past two weeks after heavy rain, flash floods, landslides, earthquakes and lightning struck large parts of the country, according to Afghan disaster authorities. The latest wave of extreme weather has added to growing humanitarian pressure in one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable countries.

The heaviest recent losses were reported in eastern Afghanistan, where Nangarhar province was among the worst-hit areas. Authorities said 24 people were killed and about 33 wounded there in just the past two days, with many deaths linked to collapsing roofs, floodwaters and storm-related damage.

Reports states that at least 1,149 homes have been destroyed, while roads, farmland and local infrastructure have also suffered extensive damage. More than 7,500 families have been affected, underscoring how quickly seasonal storms can turn into a wider humanitarian emergency in rural and poorly protected areas.

The destruction has also disrupted transport and emergency access, with flooding, landslides and rockfalls damaging key roads and cutting links between Kabul and several provinces. In some areas, stranded residents had to be airlifted to safety as floodwaters swept through villages and urban neighborhoods.

The new toll comes as weather authorities warn that more severe conditions could still be ahead. Meanwhile, reports indicated that fresh warnings have been issued as Afghanistan braces for continued harsh weather, raising fears that casualties and destruction could climb further in the coming days.

Afghanistan has faced repeated climate and disaster shocks in recent years, including earthquakes, drought and destructive floods that have hit already fragile communities. The country’s weak infrastructure, poor drainage, vulnerable housing and limited emergency capacity have made seasonal weather events far deadlier than they would be in better-prepared states.

The latest disasters are another reminder that, beyond conflict and poverty, Afghanistan is also confronting a deepening climate and resilience crisis. With more rain forecast and thousands already affected, the immediate challenge is no longer only rescue, but how to prevent another wave of avoidable loss.

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