Snow, Heavy Rain Kill 61 Across Afghanistan in Three Days

Representational image. Photo: Collected

Severe snowfall and heavy rainfall have claimed at least 61 lives across Afghanistan over the past three days, the country’s disaster management authority said on Friday (24 January).

The fatalities were reported between 21 and 23 January, with central and northern provinces bearing the brunt of the extreme weather, according to official data and a damage map released by the authority.

Initial assessments indicate that at least 110 people were injured, while 458 houses were either partially or completely destroyed. Around 360 families have been affected nationwide.

In a video message, a spokesperson urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly on snow-covered roads, warning of continued risks.

Authorities in Parwan province said the Salang Highway, one of Afghanistan’s key transport routes, has been closed due to hazardous conditions. Meanwhile, emergency food supplies were distributed to travellers stranded at a mountain pass in central Bamyan province.