Sudan: Authorities declare state of emergency in six flood-affected states as of Aug. 21

Event

Authorities in Sudan have declared a state of emergency in six states heavily impacted by recent flooding as of Aug. 21. The states subject to the state of emergency are West Kordofan, South Darfur, White Nile, River Nile, Al Jazirah, and Kassala. The emergency declaration will reportedly facilitate the provision of aid to flood-affected communities.

Officials have also advised individuals living near the Blue Nile and White Nile rivers, particularly those in Khartoum, to take precautions against rising water levels, as the rivers will likely further swell over the coming days. Heavy rainfall has affected most Sudanese states in recent months, with consequent flooding leaving at least 77 people dead since the rainy season began in May.

Hazardous Conditions
Further heavy rainfall is possible in Sudan over the coming weeks; the rainy season typically begins in June and runs through September, with the most significant rainfall and associated flooding occurring between August and September. Heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render some bridges and roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather will likely trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected states.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, evacuations, or some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect-borne and waterborne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for freight delivery delays if routing shipments through areas recently affected by flooding. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.