In the Nirkh district of Maidan Wardak, Afghanistan, an atypical weather event characterized by snowfall and cold temperatures has resulted in the destruction of blooming fruit trees, affecting the livelihoods of approximately 2,000 families. Local growers, specializing in apricot and apple cultivation, have reported total losses of their seasonal income due to this unforeseen weather pattern. One orchard owner remarked on the rarity of such snowfall during the fruit blooming season, a phenomenon not observed in over five decades. The call for assistance has been directed towards Afghan authorities to support the impacted agriculturalists.
Najibullah Sadid, an expert in climate change, highlighted the vulnerability of communities situated near rivers to unexpected climatic events, citing a general lack of access to international weather forecasts and warnings. The recent snow has led to the devastation of not only agricultural lands but also residential areas, with farmers reporting extensive damage to apple, apricot, and cherry orchards. Efforts to mitigate the damage include the removal of affected branches.
Source: amu.tv