After witnessing a no snow show for a few days, heavy rain and snow have made a comeback over the Himalayan region. The prevailing Western Disturbance has wreaked havoc over both the residents of Afghanistan as well as Pakistan.
As per reports, in one of the avalanches, at least 53 people have died in a village in Nuristan, located in Northeast Afghanistan on the Pakistan border. Until now, over 50 bodies have been recovered and the number is expected to increase. Five more deaths have been reported due to a collapsed roof in the same village.
In Badakhshan, over a dozen people were killed along with 17 being injured due to avalanches along with vehicular accidents and roof collapses. At least 12 of the districts of Badakhshan have been completely cut off from the rest of the country.
The capital city of Afghanistan, Kabul also observed heavy rainfall as well as snow due to which government offices remained closed on Sunday. Towards the north of Kabul, two avalanches have been reported. At least two villages have been completely buried due to a series of avalanches.
The neighbouring country of Pakistan has also been hit by avalanches. In fact, in the Chitral district of North Pakistan, at least nine people were killed. Not only this, four more lost their lives from the adjoining areas of the northern part of the country.
Rescue operations are also facing weather difficulties along with blocked roads due to snowfall. Two helicopters are expected to be deployed for rescue operations and aid delivery.
The international airport at Kabul is also now closed due to the presence of ice as well as snow on the runway. More avalanches and snow are likely over the region which may worsen the situation.
Image Credit: naharnet.com
