FAO Warns of Below-Average Rainfall Across Most of Afghanistan

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned that rainfall across most parts of Afghanistan is expected to remain below the long-term average in the coming week, with only parts of the north and northeast forecast to receive light precipitation.

Isteqamat Press – the FAO said dry conditions continue to prevail nationwide, while temperatures are projected to be between 0.25 and 4 degrees Celsius above normal. The warmer weather is expected to accelerate snowmelt and significantly reduce water reserves needed for late-spring irrigation.

In the highlands of the northeast, east, and central plateau, nighttime temperatures may fall below freezing, posing a continued risk of localized frost that could threaten agricultural crops. Persistent dryness is also expected to increase early-season moisture stress across the northern rain-fed agricultural belt.

The forecast has heightened concerns over a worsening water crisis and food security situation in Afghanistan.