Over a million individuals in South Sudan have been impacted by extensive flooding across the country, according to the UN’s humanitarian organization, OCHA. More than a quarter of those affected, particularly in the northern regions, have been displaced from their homes due to rising waters.
OCHA has indicated that the displaced individuals are seeking refuge on higher ground; however, the persistent rains have made it increasingly difficult to deliver aid to those in need. This flood season is being characterized as one of the worst South Sudan has faced in recent decades, affecting a population of over 11 million.
In the eastern region of Pibor, approximately 112,000 people have lost their homes, as reported by a local government relief agency. Joseph Nyao, director of Relief and Rehabilitation, told the BBC from Pibor that those who have fled to higher ground “don’t even have food; they left everything in that previous location.” He emphasized that the government is urging residents in flood-prone areas to “immediately move to higher grounds that have been identified by local authorities for their safety.” He added, “The level of water is still increasing, and the displacement is continuing.”
In May, the South Sudanese government alerted the international community to the imminent risk of exceptional flooding expected to impact the country in the following months. OCHA noted that since the onset of the rains, 15 major supply routes have become impassable, hindering the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to approximately 500,000 individuals in various parts of the country.
This crisis unfolds as South Sudan continues to grapple with the repercussions of the 18-month civil war in neighboring Sudan. Since April of last year, over half a million Sudanese refugees and returnees have been registered in South Sudan. OCHA has warned that the already dire humanitarian situation in South Sudan is becoming further exacerbated, straining the country’s ability to respond effectively.
