Iraq: Deadly and destructive flooding in the east Nov. 25 /update 1

Event

According to the UN, flash flooding has left at least 21 people dead, 180 injured, and tens of thousands displaced as of Sunday, November 25, predominately in the east of the country. The floods come after unseasonably heavy rainfall that has hit in recent weeks. Nineveh and Salah Eddin have been the worst affected areas. Emergency measures have also been deployed in the Maysan , Diyali, and Wasit governorates. Potential further rainfall could exacerbate flooding in affected areas.

Advice

Individuals in flood-affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.