FAO forecasts dry weather across Afghanistan until early May

KABUL — The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has forecasted dry and rainless conditions across most of Afghanistan for at least the next two weeks, extending through May 1.

In an update issued on Monday, February 23 (4 Hoot), FAO predicted no significant rainfall in the majority of the country during this period. Light rains are expected only in northern and northeastern provinces, while precipitation in other areas will be below normal levels.

The agency stated that temperatures will exceed normal levels, accelerating snow melt and reducing snow reserves critical for late spring irrigation. Minimum temperatures could still drop below zero degrees Celsius in elevated areas of the northeast, east, and central highlands, posing a continued risk of localized frost.

FAO warned that the persistent dry conditions will heighten the risk of early moisture stress in the rain-fed agricultural belt in northern Afghanistan.