Heavy rains in the southern Afghan province of Kandahar triggered flash floods that killed more than 20 people.
The UN reported that the dead included children whose homes collapsed or who were swept away. Ten people were reported missing.
Kandahar city, as well as districts including Zheri, Dand, Damand, Arghandab, Spinboldak and Takhtapu were hit by the floodwaters.
Yesterday the UN said floods had also affected Zabul, Herat, Kunar and Farah provinces, with 85 per cent of Farah’s capital left submerged and with 500 families displaced. Unconfirmed reports suggest that eight people were killed.
Most roads were closed and telecoms were cut, making it difficult to reach people. Local authorities and private construction companies worked to remove debris and reopen roads.
The UN estimates that in Kandahar city alone about 600 houses were damaged or destroyed, while Afghan government officials said that 379 families in the city were affected and 1,575 homes in the adjacent districts were destroyed.
Omar, 40, and his family were among those displaced by the floods and seeking refuge in Kandahar city. “Since people in our village mostly care for livestock, we are settled close to the river and mountains,” Mr Omar told The National.
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