Heavy rain causes flooding in Sudan by Kirsty McCabe
Four days of heavy rain and strong winds across parts of Sudan have led to floods that have destroyed around 15,000 homes and left 30 people dead. More than 4500 homes in the country’s capital, Khartoum have been devastated by the rising flood waters, as seasonal rains reach a record level. Meanwhile, in downtown Khartoum, three areas have been left completely deserted as residents fled the flood-water which inundated their houses.
In eastern parts of the country, the River Gash which flows into Sudan from Ethiopia caused flash floods which left hundreds of people homeless. UN humanitarian official Christian Smet said “this year there has been exceptional floods; livelihoods are being destroyed.” Flooding has also sparked fears over the spread of water- borne diseases such as Malaria, with the water creating stagnant pools; a perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
As humanitarian organisations begin to offer aid and help with the relief efforts, officials are still concerned about the possibility of further flooding. Despite the rains easing over the last day, parts of the Blue and White Nile remain dangerously high, meaning even a small amount of rainfall could spell disaster for yet more Sudanese.
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