South Sudan: Tens of thousands displaced due to flash-flooding in Panyinjiar County (Unity State) August 26

Event

More than 80,000 residents of Panyinjiar County in Unity State have been displaced amid recent flash flooding as of Wednesday, August 26. Heavy rainfall over the past weeks has caused damage to infrastructure and houses in the region. Torrential rains across the country have also caused havoc in other areas, including; Jonglei, Lakes, and parts of Central and Western Equatoria states. Further rainfall and associated flooding is expected over the near-term.

Context

South Sudan is prone to flooding, particularly in northern and north-central states, during the rainy season that runs from April to October. Areas in the White Nile Valley are particularly vulnerable to flooding, with widespread poverty and conflict largely preventing communities from relocating out of flood-prone areas or creating buffer zones to limit the impact of torrential rainfall. The summer months generally record the highest levels of rainfall. The dilapidated state of infrastructure leaves South Sudan without any resilience to such flooding and extremely vulnerable to even routine storms. Periods of heavy rainfall can also cause significant travel disruption, including to air travel.

Advice

Those in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.