Expert Warns of Early Warming and Climate Impacts in Afghanistan
A water resources and climate change expert has warned that Afghanistan is on the verge of experiencing early warming, a situation that could have widespread consequences for the environment and the livelihoods of the country’s residents.
Najibullah Sadid, an expert in water resources, environment, and climate change, wrote on the social media platform X on Sunday, January 31, that forecasts indicate temperatures in Afghanistan during February will be 8 to 12 degrees Celsius above normal. According to him, this temperature increase will cause early snowmelt, which poses risks such as flooding, rapid soil moisture loss, destruction of crops and pastures, and ultimately an increased likelihood of drought in the summer.
Meanwhile, the Natural Disaster Management Department under the Taliban administration has announced that rainfall reduction will continue this week in northern parts of the country. However, this department also reported the possibility of precipitation in the western regions, mountainous areas in central, eastern, and northeastern Afghanistan. These forecasts come with uncertainties regarding preparedness and capacity to manage their impacts.
Previously, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that Afghanistan’s rainy season has started drier and warmer than usual. According to this report, below-average rainfall and above-average temperatures were expected across most regions of the country in early winter.
Afghanistan has faced consecutive years of reduced rainfall and severe drought, driven by climate change. Although some snowfall and rain have been recorded in certain areas this winter, the overall precipitation remains below normal. This situation calls for transparent planning, accountability from responsible institutions, and serious attention to water resource management and support for vulnerable residents.
