Climate Disaster in Nuristan: Heavy monsoon rain and flash floods across Afghanistan’s eastern Nuristan province have killed at least 23 people and left more than 100 missing, with rescuers struggling to reach affected areas; fresh floods later injured at least 30 and destroyed homes, roads, irrigation canals and livestock, underscoring how extreme weather is colliding with weak local infrastructure. Deforestation Pressure: Afghan environmental experts warn deforestation is rising due to poverty, lack of awareness, and dependence on wood for fuel, raising risks of soil erosion, desertification, water loss and worse climate impacts. Energy & Air Quality Hope: As the TAPI gas pipeline nears Herat, officials say a $420 million plan will expand natural gas networks across the city, create jobs, cut household energy costs and reduce air pollution by replacing fossil fuels. Water Security Beyond Borders: The World Bank approved a $20 million grant to improve transboundary water cooperation in Central Asia, aiming to strengthen management of shared Amu Darya and Syr Darya basins as climate pressures grow. Health System Strain: A report highlights preventable maternal deaths in rural Afghanistan tied to gaps in prenatal care and clinic capacity, worsened by shortages of female health workers and restrictions on women’s education and employment.