09 Aug 2021 | 03:25 PM UTC
Sudan: Severe weather likely to continue nationwide through at least late October. Plan for possible flash flooding and travel delays.
Severe weather likely to continue across Sudan through at least late October. Plan for possible flash flooding and travel delays.
Event
Heavy rainfall conducive to flooding is forecast to impact Sudan through late October. The country has been affected by severe flooding since July, which has affected most of the country's states. Khartoum, Al Jazirah, Gedaref, North Kordofan, River Nile, South Darfur, South Kordofan, West Darfur, and White Nile have been particularly affected. As of Aug. 9, at least 4,000 residential structures, several roads, and farmlands have been damaged.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides cannot be ruled out in hilly or mountainous areas - especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Transport and Utilities
Floodwaters could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in the affected area. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways, including along the A1, A5, A11 A43, and B26 highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, including - but not limited to - those serving Atbara (ATB), Kassala (KSL), Khartoum (KRT), and Port Sudan (PZU).
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions improve - it could take days for workers to clear debris after floodwaters recede. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair and reconstruction efforts may exacerbate any residual disruptions.
Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides have occurred.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where severe weather has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged power outages.
