Flash floods in western Afghanistan kill at least 21

At least 21 people lost their lives in sudden flash floods that struck Qala-e-Kah district in Afghanistan’s Farah province, local sources said on Tuesday. The victims, who were visiting the area for leisure, were swept into a deep ravine when the waters surged unexpectedly.

At least four others sustained injuries, and several children were among the deceased. Taliban officials have yet to comment on the disaster. This incident adds to growing concerns over extreme weather in Afghanistan, where heavy rains have led to deadly floods in multiple provinces.

In May 2024, floods in Baghlan province claimed over 315 lives and destroyed thousands of homes. By July, the UN reported that 58 people had died in flood-related incidents, with hundreds injured and families in need of urgent aid.