Deadly Storms and Landslide Kill Nine Children in Afghanistan

Severe storms and a rain‑triggered landslide have claimed the lives of at least nine children across southern and eastern Afghanistan, as officials warn that worsening winter weather continues to endanger communities.

Strong winds and heavy rain swept through Kandahar on Wednesday, killing six children and inflicting major financial losses across several districts. Local authorities reported that the storms also damaged multiple homes.

In eastern Nuristan province, relentless rainfall triggered a landslide that struck a house in Quraish village the same day. Three children from the same family lost their lives and two others were injured. A provincial spokesman confirmed that the victims included two 10‑year‑old girls and a teenage boy.

Further north in Ghazni province, nearly 80 centimeters of snow fell within 24 hours, shutting down markets and blocking key roads. Heavy snowfall across Kabul and several other provinces has also led to traffic accidents and widespread disruption.

Afghanistan remains highly vulnerable to extreme weather events. Fragile infrastructure, remote terrain and limited emergency resources leave many communities exposed to deadly floods, landslides and storms year after year.