20 Killed, 105 Missing as Floods Devastate Afghanistan's Nuristan

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Parun: At least 20 people have been killed and more than 80 injured after flash floods swept through Afghanistan's Nuristan province, leaving widespread destruction in the provincial capital of Parun and triggering a major search and rescue operation.

Officials said 105 people, including Parun's mayor, remain missing after floodwaters tore through the town. Rescue teams and local residents have been searching for survivors, although many are working without proper equipment.

The floods destroyed large parts of Parun, including the municipal offices, hotels, dozens of shops and other buildings located near the riverside. Huge boulders carried by the floodwaters have also been left scattered across the town, making rescue efforts more difficult.

Afghanistan's National Disaster Management Agency said the flooding caused heavy human and financial losses, while emergency teams continued efforts to recover bodies and assist the injured. Government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid also confirmed the deaths and extensive property damage.

Authorities have warned that flooding has become more frequent across Afghanistan in recent years. Earlier this month, the country's environmental protection agency said worsening environmental conditions have deepened the humanitarian crisis, while experts say climate change is increasing the intensity of extreme rainfall by allowing the atmosphere to hold more moisture.

Pic Credit: AFP