Flash update on flooding in eastern Afghanistan (20-21 July 2026)

Heavy rainfall and flash flooding have affected communities across Nangarhar, Nuristan and Laghman provinces in eastern Afghanistan, causing deaths, injuries, displacement risks, damage to homes and livelihoods, and disruption to essential services. In Nangarhar, flooding affected the Torkham border area, disrupting returnee movement at the border crossing. In Nuristan, the impact has been severe, with reported deaths, injuries and more than 100 people missing, alongside extensive damage to homes, markets, roads, bridges, agricultural land and water systems. Around 1,000 families reportedly face disrupted access to safe drinking water. In Laghman, flooding damaged agricultural land and crops, threatening livelihoods and household food security.

UNFPA is working with partners to monitor the situation and to identify emerging needs, particularly for women and girls, including pregnant women, adolescent girls and women-headed households. Ensuring continued access to essential sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence services, dignity supplies, safe referrals, and protection support will be critical as assessments continue.