At least 20 people have died and more than 100 remain missing after devastating flash floods swept through Afghanistan’s northeastern Nuristan province, triggering widespread destruction and hampering rescue efforts in the mountainous region.

Officials warned that the death toll could increase as emergency teams continue searching for survivors in areas cut off by damaged roads and flood debris.

Parun Suffers the Worst Damage

The provincial capital, Parun, was among the hardest-hit locations after torrential floodwaters surged through residential neighbourhoods and commercial areas.

Homes, businesses, and key infrastructure suffered extensive damage, leaving many families displaced and disrupting daily life across the district.

Authorities said the scale of destruction is still being assessed as rescue workers reach isolated communities.

Mayor Among Those Reported Missing

Among those reported missing are the Mayor of Parun and his two bodyguards.

Emergency officials continue to search for them along with dozens of other residents who remain unaccounted for following the disaster.

The large number of missing people has raised fears that the casualty count may rise in the coming days.

Rescue Operations Face Major Challenges

Search and rescue operations began soon after the flooding, but difficult conditions have slowed progress.

Flood-damaged roads, washed-out routes, and the rugged mountain terrain have made it challenging for rescue teams to access several affected villages.

Officials said emergency responders are continuing their efforts despite the logistical difficulties.

Dozens Injured in the Disaster

In addition to the fatalities, at least 80 people were injured during the flooding.

Medical teams have been providing treatment to the injured while local authorities work to assess the full extent of property damage and humanitarian needs.

Officials also warned of significant financial losses resulting from the destruction of homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.

Climate Change Increasing Flood Risks

Afghanistan remains one of the countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

Experts have warned that extreme weather events, including flash floods, have become more frequent in recent years.

Environmental degradation, including widespread deforestation in provinces such as Nuristan, has further increased flood risks by reducing the land’s ability to absorb heavy rainfall.

Combined with the country’s mountainous landscape, these factors make many communities especially vulnerable during periods of intense rain.

What Happens Next?

Rescue teams are expected to continue search operations over the coming days as authorities work to locate missing people and deliver assistance to affected communities.

Officials are also assessing the damage to infrastructure and preparing relief efforts for families impacted by one of the deadliest flood disasters to strike Nuristan in recent months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many people died in the Afghanistan flash floods?

At least 20 people have been confirmed dead.

2. How many people are missing?

More than 100 people remain missing as search operations continue.

3. Which province was affected?

The floods struck Nuristan province in northeastern Afghanistan.

4. Which area suffered the most damage?

The provincial capital Parun was reported as the worst-hit area.

5. Is the mayor of Parun missing?

Yes. Authorities said the mayor of Parun and his two bodyguards are among those reported missing.

6. How many people were injured?

At least 80 people were injured in the flooding.

7. Why are rescue efforts difficult?

Damaged roads, washed-out routes, and rugged mountainous terrain have slowed emergency response operations.

8. What caused the flash floods?

Heavy rainfall triggered sudden flooding across parts of Nuristan province.

9. Why is Afghanistan vulnerable to flash floods?

Climate change, extreme weather, mountainous geography, and deforestation have increased the country’s flood risk.

10. Will the death toll increase?

Officials have warned that the number of fatalities may rise as rescue teams continue searching for those still missing.