Cold wave in Afghanistan

The cold wave in Afghanistan has highly impacted livestock. Since 25 February 2024, initial reports indicate that over 280 000 animals have died. The Data in Emergencies (DIEM) team at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) examined satellite derived climate data over the period to understand the impact. This StoryMap provides an assessment of the potential impact of the cold wave on livestock and livelihoods in Afghanistan. The StoryMap includes recommendations for the country team to inform targeting and understand the impact. Key highlights Over 280 000 animals have died. The lowest temperature was -21o C on 25 February. The cold wave moved from one location to another in the following days. The location of the lowest temperatures moved from Badakhshan to Ghor, while Badakhshan remained the coldest location throughout the observed period. Therefore, the number of impacted villages and the extent of the cold wave increased. The affected provinces changed during the period of 25 February to 2 March due to the fluctuating cold temperatures. Badakhshan, Bamyan, Daykundi, Ghor, Nuristan, Panjshir, Parwan and Samangan remained the most impacted provinces over the period. When compared to the 2023 cold wave, the lowest temperature was much lower in January 2023 (-35o C) than February 2024 (-24o C). However, the duration of the cold wave period was longer in 2024, especially in Badakhshan. The West-Central Highland Agro-Pastoral Zone; Northeastern Highland Agro-Pastoral Zone; East-Central Mountainous Agro-Pastoral Zone; and Eastern Agro-Pastoral and Forest Zone were the most impacted over the observed dates. The West-Central Highland Agro-Pastoral Zone was also heavily impacted by the earthquakes in October 2023.