Afghanistan flash floods claim at least 35 lives as death toll rises

The death toll from flash floods triggered by heavy rains in Afghanistan has surged to 35 over the past two days, with an additional six people killed and five injured in southern Helmand province, according to local officials.

The devastating flash floods swept through several districts in Helmand, including Garashk, Sangin, Musa Qala, Nawzad, and Babaji, as well as the provincial capital, Lashkar Gah, said Hafiz Abdul Bari Rashid, the Provincial Director of Information and Culture. In neighboring Kandahar and Farah provinces, 29 people lost their lives, with 21 of those fatalities coming from two families in Farah.

Since Monday, most parts of Afghanistan have experienced not only heavy rainfall but also snowfall, exacerbating the already dire conditions across the country.

Last year, flash floods in northern Afghanistan were even more catastrophic, claiming the lives of 315 people and injuring more than 1,600. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as rescue and relief efforts remain underway.

Local officials are urging residents to take precautions and seek shelter, while emergency response teams work to assist those affected by the ongoing floods. The worsening weather conditions have compounded the challenges faced by communities already struggling with the aftermath of previous natural disasters.

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