Fatal flash floods strike Nuristan province in Afghanistan

Flash floods hit the town of Parun, the capital of Nuristan province in northeastern Afghanistan, resulting in significant destruction. According to the provincial governor's office, 23 people have been confirmed dead, while reports indicate at least 100 individuals remain missing. Rescue operations are ongoing with limited equipment, forcing residents to search through debris using shovels and bare hands. A spokesperson for the Afghan Red Crescent, Juma Khan Nayel, confirmed that water levels rose unexpectedly high, sweeping away numerous buildings and shops in the town center. Currently, approximately 50 Red Crescent volunteers are on-site, with additional rescue teams and mobile clinics being deployed to assist. Officials have expressed concerns that there is little chance of finding remaining victims alive. The affected region is remote and mountainous, complicating relief efforts near the Pakistani border.