Flash floods in Afghanistan kill over 50 and wash away homes

Flash floods have hit the Guzirga i-Nur district of northeastern Baghlan in Afghanistan causing extensive damage to property, leaving thousands of homeless and killing over 50 people. Death toll is reportedly expected to rise as a result of a series of flash floods and landslides hitting this remote area of northern Afghanistan. 

According to Lt Fazel Rahman, the chief of police in the Guzirga i-Nur district, 54 bodies were recovered and many more are missing, expressing fears that the number will rise significantly. It is estimated that about 5,000 families were left homeless, while 850 homes were wiped out and 1,000 were severely damaged. The main road arteries leading to the area are closed and access to this mountainous location is only possible by air. According to a spokesman for the Afghan Defense Ministry, two helicopters reached the area and distributed tents, food supplies, medicine and drinking water to the cut off villagers. 

Spring rains cause frequent flooding in the particular Afghan area, however this year's rainfall has caused extensive damage to homes, property and the death of thousands of people. This is the second major natural disaster hitting the country, after the devastating mudslide in Badakshan, in early May.