In Afghanistan, 180 people have died in last week's massive floods. An official at a local disaster-relief organization says rescue operations have been hampered by the aftermath.

Torrential rain hit the northern province of Baghlan and Takhar around Friday, triggering devastating floods. A UN humanitarian affairs agency says over 240 people have been injured.

As rescue and relief operations are in urgent need, Fazalhaq Maqsoodyar, Assistant Spokesperson of the Afghan Red Crescent Society, spoke to NHK about the difficulties impacting humanitarian efforts.

He says roads leading to severely damaged villages have been closed, preventing rescue workers from being able to access them.

He also detailed the hardships survivors are living with. He says floods have washed away houses and people are living under the open sky.

They are also dealing with clean drinking water not being available. Concerns are growing that waterborne illnesses, including skin infections and diarrhea, will spread in the area.

The spokesperson is calling on the international community to provide food and shelter support to help those affected rebuild their lives.