KABUL: As cold weather intensifies in Afghanistan, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported that currently, 2 out of every 5 Afghan citizens require humanitarian assistance.
OCHA in a statement said on Friday night, that due to the severe cold in recent days, at least 16 people, including children, have died, with dozens more injured. Among these, the National Disaster Management Authority confirmed the deaths of 11 individuals across six provinces.
Additionally, OCHA highlighted that heavy rainfall and snowfall have triggered a deadly landslide in Nuristan province, while adverse weather conditions in other regions have led to roof collapses and traffic accidents.
The report comes as temperatures in some areas of Afghanistan have dropped to minus 11 degrees Celsius. Local officials in Zabul province stated on Friday evening urging residents to avoid going outside unless necessary, to wear warm clothing, and to refrain from non-essential travel.
Meanwhile, civilian and military agencies across Afghanistan are addressing issues caused by recent snowfall and rainfall, reopening roads, and providing assistance to affected populations.
UN warns humanitarian needs rising as harsh winter hits Afghanistan
