Flooding and heavy rains have wreaked havoc in war-torn Sudan, resulting in the deaths of at least 132 people this year, according to the country’s health ministry. The intense rainy season, which began last month, has caused intermittent torrential flooding, primarily in the north and east regions of Sudan.
The statement released by the health ministry revealed that 10 states have been affected by the floods, with 31,666 families and 129,650 individuals impacted. The death toll has reached 132, and the situation is expected to worsen due to the prolonged fighting between rival generals over the past 16 months. This conflict has forced millions of people into flood-prone areas, exacerbating the impact of the floods.
The ministry further reported that 12,420 homes have completely collapsed, while 11,472 others have suffered partial damage due to the heavy rains. The majority of the destruction has occurred in Sudan’s Northern and River Nile states. Over the weekend, intense rainfall caused the Arbaat Dam, located north of the Red Sea city of Port Sudan, to collapse, leading to the destruction of entire villages.
Residents of the Arbaat area, such as Issa Adroub, recounted the devastating effects of the flooding. Houses and animals were swept away, forcing people to seek refuge in the mountains. The Arbaat Dam is a crucial source of water for Port Sudan, where officials relocated after the outbreak of war in Khartoum.
Local volunteers assisting with relief efforts reported that 13 people, including women and children, have been found dead, while 210 individuals remain missing. The torrential waters have completely washed away 20 villages and caused damage to 50 others. The unusual timing of the rainfall, as the region typically experiences rainfall in November and March, has caught many off guard.
In addition to the loss of life and destruction of infrastructure, Sudanese authorities and the United Nations have also reported a surge in cholera cases due to the heavy downpours. The World Health Organization (WHO) stated in August that Sudan had recorded at least 11,327 cholera cases, with 316 fatalities since June 2023. Sudan’s Health Minister, Haitham Ibrahim, attributed the epidemic to the combination of climatic conditions and water contamination.
The ongoing war in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has pitted the Sudanese army, led by de facto ruler Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, commanded by Burhan’s former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Both sides have been accused of war crimes, including targeting civilians and obstructing humanitarian aid.
The situation in Sudan is dire, with the combination of conflict and natural disasters exacerbating the suffering of the population. Urgent action is needed to address the immediate needs of those affected by the floods, including providing shelter, clean water, and medical assistance. Additionally, efforts should be made to address the underlying causes of the conflict and promote peace and stability in the region.
As the international community rallies to provide support and aid to Sudan, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being and safety of the affected population. By addressing the immediate needs and working towards long-term solutions, we can help alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people and prevent further loss of life and destruction.