KABUL - The cabinet announced a three-day national mourning to express solidarity with families who lost their beloved ones to avalanches in several parts of the country, a statement from the Presidential Palace said on Saturday.

The death toll from a series of avalanches and flash floods rose to 260 on Friday, with the bulk of deaths coming from central Panjsher province, where above 200 lost their lives, including women and children.

Chaired by President Ghai, the cabinet announced a three-day national mourning from Saturday till Monday.

The special meeting decided to fly the national flag at half-mast at home and Afghan embassies and consulates abroad during the period. The meeting called the damage from avalanches as “tragic and sad.”

The cabinet also asked unaffected Afghans to hold funeral for the victims in absentia across the country.  Condolences will be offered on Sunday. (pajhwok)