A devastating series of winter storms has struck Afghanistan, resulting in a significant humanitarian crisis. Official reports from the country’s disaster management authority (ANDMA) confirm that at least 61 individuals have lost their lives over a three-day period from Wednesday to Friday. The severe weather conditions, characterized by heavy snowfall and torrential rains, have primarily impacted the central and northern provinces.
Beyond the tragic loss of life, the preliminary assessment reveals extensive damage. The toll includes 110 individuals injured and 458 residential properties either partially damaged or completely demolished. ANDMA released these initial figures via a social media update, highlighting the scale of the devastation.
The human impact is further underscored by the estimation that 360 families have been adversely affected by the extreme weather. In response to the crisis, authorities have issued urgent public advisories. A spokesperson, in a video statement, strongly urged citizens to refrain from non-essential travel to avoid further incidents on treacherous, snow-laden roads.
Critical infrastructure has been severely disrupted. The Salang highway, a vital national transportation artery, has been rendered impassable and officially closed, as announced by the provincial government of Parwan. This closure has stranded numerous travelers, particularly on a mountain pass within the central Bamyan province, where emergency efforts are underway to distribute essential food supplies to those trapped.