Flooding and Collapsing Buildings Kill 22 in Afghanistan as Severe Weather Persists

At least 22 people have been killed and 32 injured in Afghanistan after heavy rain triggered flash floods and building collapses over the past two days, authorities said, warning that unstable weather conditions could lead to further damage.

The fatalities were reported across several provinces in Afghanistan, particularly in central and eastern regions including Parwan, Maidan Wardak, Daykundi, and Logar. Officials said torrential rainfall caused flash flooding that swept through rural and mountainous communities, leading to the collapse of homes and widespread destruction.

According to the National Disaster Management Authority, a total of 241 houses were damaged in weather-related incidents across 13 provinces. An official from the authority, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the country remains at risk as weather conditions continue to fluctuate.

“Twenty-two people were killed, 32 injured and 241 houses damaged in flooding and other weather-related incidents,” the official said, adding that the figures could rise as more information becomes available from affected areas.

The NDMA described conditions in parts of the country as “unstable,” with forecasts indicating further rainfall and the possibility of additional flooding in the coming days. Emergency teams have been deployed to assess damage and assist affected communities, though access to remote regions remains a challenge.

Afghanistan is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, including floods, earthquakes, and drought. The United Nations has repeatedly warned that the country ranks among those most at risk from climate change, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe.

The situation has been compounded by economic difficulties and reduced international support. Since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, foreign aid — once a major source of government funding — has been significantly reduced, limiting the country’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies.

A recent report by the United Nations Development Programme found that natural disasters had already destroyed around 8,000 homes across Afghanistan in 2025, placing additional strain on already stretched public services. The report warned that repeated disasters are pushing communities beyond their capacity to recover.

Residents in affected areas have described rising water levels, damaged infrastructure, and a lack of immediate resources to cope with the aftermath. Many families have been forced to leave their homes, seeking shelter in safer locations as authorities continue to monitor the situation.

Officials say further updates will be provided as rescue and assessment operations continue, while urging residents in vulnerable regions to remain alert to weather warnings and take precautions where possible.