Torrential rains have triggered devastating flash floods across northern Afghanistan, leaving at least 153 people dead and injuring another 138, according to Afghan's Ministry of Interior Affairs.

The worst-hit province appears to be Baghlan in the north, where the UN's International Organization for Migration estimates over 200 lives were lost and thousands of homes destroyed or damaged. Badakhshan, Ghor, and Herat provinces have also suffered significant casualties and infrastructure damage.

Heavy downpours on Friday caused rivers to overflow and unleash a sudden surge of water that overwhelmed unprepared communities. Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban government's chief spokesman, acknowledged "extensive devastation" and "significant financial losses" on social media.

Hedayatullah Hamdard, head of Baghlan's natural disaster management, fears the death toll will continue to rise as light rain persists and rescue efforts continue. Residents caught off guard by the sudden deluge are now facing a desperate situation.

Afghan government has declared a state of emergency in affected areas and deployed the air force to evacuate stranded residents. Over 100 injured individuals have been transported to military hospitals. Relief efforts are underway, with the Ministry of National Defense distributing food, medicine, and first aid supplies to impacted communities.

With hundreds dead, thousands displaced, and homes destroyed, Afghanistan faces a major humanitarian crisis in the wake of these devastating floods. International assistance will likely be crucial to support rescue and recovery efforts, particularly in the hardest-hit areas. (ILKHA)