UN: Floods Submerge Entire Communities in Yemen, Leaving Thousands Homeless

Tuesday 2 Aug 2024 |2 months ago
Part of the floods in Hodeidah - Archive

Barran Press

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Tuesday, August 27th, 2024, that torrential rains have caused floods that have submerged entire communities in Yemen's Hodeidah governorate (western Yemen), while 8,000 families in Marib governorate (northeastern Yemen) have been left homeless.

In a statement, seen by "Barran Press", the WHO said, "Since late last month, torrential rains have turned into raging floods that have swept through cities and villages in Yemen, leaving behind widespread devastation."

The statement added, "In Marib governorate (central Yemen), over 8,400 displaced families have suddenly found themselves without shelter after 6,700 shelters were destroyed." The statement noted that the heavy rains "turned streets into rivers, washing away homes, livestock, and livelihoods."

The statement continued, "The situation in western Hodeidah governorate is no less dire, with entire communities submerged, the death toll has risen significantly, with at least 36 people killed and 564 injured since late July."

Regarding aid to those affected by the floods, the statement said, "The humanitarian response has been swift, but the scale of the disaster is immense... Aid organizations facing ongoing conflict, a lack of funding, and increasing restrictions are striving to provide emergency relief, but the humanitarian needs are vast, and the complexities are increasing day by day."

Since late July, Yemen has experienced increased rainfall, resulting in the deaths of dozens and affecting nearly a quarter of a million people, particularly those living in displacement camps, according to the United Nations. The UN has warned that the severe weather in Yemen will continue until September.

https://en.barran.press/news/topic/4237