Current Weather in Afghanistan

Afghanistan, with its inland highlands and mountainous regions, experiences significant climate variations due to differences in elevation. In an environment where dry and rainy seasons, extreme heat and harsh winters coexist, unique lifestyles, festivals, and disaster preparedness have developed in different regions. Below, we organize the cultural and meteorological consciousness related to climate in Afghanistan from key perspectives.

Elevation Differences and Seasonal Diversity

Clear Seasonal Divisions

• In the northern highlands, severe winters (below -20°C) persist for long periods, while in the southern plains, summer temperatures exceed 40°C.
• Spring and autumn are short, and agricultural activities and transhumance are conducted during these "fleeting mild seasons."

The Relationship Between Seasons and Living Conditions

• In winter, the demand for wool-mixed clothing and carpets increases, while the storage of firewood and coal for heating is essential.
• In summer, lightweight cotton clothing, cooling with well water or kettle water, and daytime rest become central to coping with the heat.

Islamic Calendar and Agricultural Festivals

Overlap of Ramadan and Rainy Season

• The fasting month of Ramadan often coincides with the onset of the rainy season, merging sacredness and practicality in food and water transport plans.
• The festival of Eid al-Fitr after fasting typically involves outdoor prayers and family gatherings after the rain.

The Connection Between Harvest Festivals and Harira

• During the main harvest period for wheat and vegetables (late summer to autumn), traditional stew "Harira" is prepared in large pots and served in markets and homes.

Weather and Daily Conversation Habits

Discussion of Temperature Changes

• Topics like "It was cold this morning" and "It will get hot in the afternoon" are common conversation starters about daily temperature differences.
• These discussions are also crucial for managing livestock health and planning work schedules.

Consideration for Water Resource Security

• During the dry season, well usage concentrates in the early morning and evening, facilitating information exchange at water sources.
• Reports such as "The well has dried up" and "The irrigation canal is blocked" are quickly shared within community communication networks.

Natural Disasters and Community Solidarity

Preparedness for Avalanches and Floods

• Annual occurrences of avalanches in winter and seasonal floods in the rainy season necessitate maintaining evacuation routes and simple levees in each village.
• The roles within the village (young people repair levees, elderly manage food, etc.) are clearly defined.

Community Disaster Prevention Culture

• In times of disaster, neighbors cooperate for livestock relocation, emergency repairs, and shelter establishment.
• Traditional oral warnings such as "If you hear the sound of the mountain snow cracking, evacuate" are transmitted as precautionary signals.

Climate Change and Socio-Economics

Drought and Livestock Farming

• Recent frequent droughts have led to decreased water sources and grazing lands, compelling adjustments to transhumance routes and livestock numbers.
• Traditional pastoralists are also exploring coexistence with settled agriculture.

Development and Environmental Adjustments

• While dam construction and irrigation projects advance, concerns about soil erosion and declining groundwater levels are increasing.
• NGOs and the government are implementing "climate adaptation projects" utilizing meteorological data.

Summary

Afghanistan's climate consciousness is closely intertwined with life, faith, and community activities against the backdrop of a harsh natural environment, continuing to adapt to modern challenges.