Severe winter storms across Afghanistan have killed at least 61 people, officials said, compounding an already dire humanitarian crisis across the country.
Afghanistan’s National Disaster Management Authority said on Saturday that heavy snowfall and rainfall over recent days left 61 people dead and 110 others injured nationwide.
The authority said the storms, which struck between Wednesday and Friday, caused widespread damage, particularly in mountainous and rural areas with weak disaster-resilient infrastructure.
Officials said at least 458 homes were destroyed or partially damaged, while major highways and inter-provincial roads were blocked by snow accumulation and avalanche risks.
The disaster comes as Afghanistan faces a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions dependent on aid amid economic collapse, food shortages and limited access to basic services.
The harsh winter has worsened conditions for families returning to Afghanistan after forced deportations from Pakistan and Iran, many lacking shelter, heating and winter supplies.
Meteorological forecasts indicate snowfall may continue in parts of the country this week, raising concerns about further casualties and isolation of remote communities.
Aid agencies warn that without urgent assistance, continued extreme weather could deepen suffering for vulnerable populations already struggling to survive winter conditions.
