The Taliban-run meteorological department issued a warning on Tuesday for a new wave of extreme heat expected to hit large parts of the country in the coming days. In some areas, residents have reported concerns over public health, water shortages and damage to crops.
According to the Taliban-run Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation’s Meteorology Department, temperatures are forecast to rise significantly across northeastern, northern, western, southern, and central provinces from July 2 to 7 (11 to 16 Saratan).
The warning was echoed by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which noted that an intense heat wave is expected to impact parts of Afghanistan between June 29 and July 5.
Experts have warned that continued high temperatures could harm agricultural production, strain already limited water resources, and heighten the risk of drought in vulnerable regions.
Residents in Herat reported that temperatures reached 45 degrees Celsius (113°F) on Wednesday, with electricity outages exacerbating the discomfort. “It’s unbearable without power — and tomorrow is likely to be worse,” said one resident. Reports from Islam Qala, a border town in Herat Province, indicated temperatures as high as 47 degrees Celsius (117°F).
The country, already grappling with widespread economic hardship and a fragile power grid, remains particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events. Aid agencies have stressed the need for improved infrastructure and climate resilience planning.
