A flash flood has swept away villages in northern Afghanistan, killing at least 17 people.

The governor of Takhar province said heavy rains triggered the flooding in the Ishkamish district around midnight Friday. He warned the death toll may rise. At least 20 people were reportedly missing.

Rescuers were trying to access the area, where many of the roads have been blocked and homes washed away.

Earlier this week, another flash flood hit the northern province of Sari Pul — killing at least 21 people, including several members of a wedding party.