06 Apr 2023 | 01:31 AM UTC
Yemen: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in south, central, and western regions as of early April 6
Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in south, central, and western Yemen as of early April 6. Fatalities reported.
Event
Emergency services are continuing their response efforts as of early April 6 after recent heavy rainfall over south, central, and western Yemen resulted in flooding. In Bayhan District, Shabwa Governorate, three people died after a bus was swept away by floodwaters. Another fatality occurred when floodwaters submerged a vehicle near Ahwar in southern Abyan Governorate. Reports indicate that at least two more people in southern Yemen were swept away by floodwaters. At least 20 houses in Al-Haraziyah, Al-Uliyah, and Taiz are damaged or flooded, forcing evacuations of residents.
As of early April 6, Yemen's National Center of Meteorology has forecast heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and hail across western Al Jawf, Al Mahweet, Amran, Dhamar, Hajjah, Ibb, southern Marib, Raymah, Saada, Sana’a, and Taiz governorates. Scattered rainfall is likely over the rest of the country. The center has warned that flash flooding and landslides are possible in areas where heavy rain occurs, as well as dangerous road conditions. Further periods of adverse weather are expected to impact parts of the country through the middle of April.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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 located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy 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.
Due to the arid nature of the region and poor stormwater management in some urban areas, even minor rainfall accumulations could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and wadis (dry riverbeds). Significant rainfall may be preceded by moderate winds and dust storms, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high levels of dust without rain.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or 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 could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in affected areas. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for updates and advisories on weather conditions. Confirm all transport reservations prior to travel. Make allowances for possible supply chain disruptions in affected areas. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.
