UN Humanitarian Response to Flash Floods in Afghanistan
UN humanitarian teams have been working tirelessly to provide lifesaving aid to communities in northeastern Afghanistan that have been devastated by deadly flash floods over the weekend. The flash floods have tragically claimed the lives of at least 300 people, including 51 children, with many more individuals sustaining injuries. These numbers are expected to rise as further reports are received by UN agencies.
UN Chief’s Condolences
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims affected by the devastating floods in Afghanistan.
Coordination and Assistance
The United Nations and its partners in Afghanistan are actively coordinating with local authorities to assess the urgent needs of the affected communities and provide essential emergency assistance. The UN spokesperson extended wishes for a swift recovery to the injured individuals and offered condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones.
Impact and Response
The province of Baghlan has witnessed the highest number of casualties, with heavy rains causing the destruction of approximately 3,000 houses, flooding farmlands, displacing livestock, disrupting educational institutions, and damaging healthcare facilities. Additionally, initial reports indicate that Takhar and Badakhshan provinces have also been significantly impacted, with around 300 houses reported as damaged by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
On-Ground Mobilization
UNICEF, along with its partners, is actively engaged on the ground, working tirelessly to provide immediate relief to the affected families and communities. Dr. Tajudeen Oyewale, UNICEF Representative in Afghanistan, expressed condolences to the families mourning the loss of their loved ones and highlighted the critical need to ensure access to safe water, healthcare, and protection services for the affected children and families.
Swift Aid Deployment
UN agencies, in collaboration with partners, have swiftly initiated the distribution of aid to the affected regions. UNICEF has dispatched essential family kits, hygiene kits, blankets, and clothing kits to support the affected populations. Additionally, the UN migration organization (IOM) is providing aid packages containing temporary shelters, non-food items, and tools for repairs, while the UN World Food Programme (WFP) is distributing energy biscuits to flood survivors.
Climate Resilience Efforts
The recent extreme weather events in Afghanistan underscore the urgent need for climate-resilient humanitarian efforts. UN relief agencies, including OCHA, are actively working with partners and national authorities to provide shelter, food, and healthcare to the affected populations. Afghanistan, being one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, has been grappling with a rise in extreme weather conditions, emphasizing the importance of building resilience to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.