Sudan’s health ministry has confirmed that at least 132 people have died this year as a result of flooding and heavy rains in the war-torn country. Since last month, intense rains have battered Sudan, primarily affecting the northern and eastern regions.
The ministry reported that the floods have impacted 10 states, displacing 129,650 individuals and affecting over 31,000 families. More than 12,420 homes have been completely destroyed, while another 11,472 homes have partially collapsed.
While flooding is a recurring issue in Sudan, the impact has been exacerbated this year due to ongoing fighting between rival generals. The conflict, which began 16 months ago, has forced millions of displaced people into vulnerable flood zones.
The Arbaat Dam, located north of Port Sudan, collapsed due to intense rainfall on Saturday, sweeping away entire villages. Local volunteers assisting with relief efforts have reported 13 confirmed deaths, including women and children, and 210 people remain missing.
In addition to the flooding, Sudan is facing a surge in cholera cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported over 11,000 cholera cases since June 2023, with 316 fatalities. Sudan’s Health Minister Haitham Ibrahim attributed the outbreak to “climatic conditions and water contamination.”
The ongoing war, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese army led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has complicated relief efforts. Both sides have been accused of war crimes, including targeting civilians and obstructing humanitarian aid.