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More than 100 000 affected by ‘once-in-a-generation’ floods in Yemen, UN reports

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More than 100 000 people across Yemen have been affected by torrential rains and 'once-in-a-generation' flooding, the United Nations Office of the Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator reported on April 26, 2020. 

On March 25, destructive flash floods tore through temporary capital Aden, killing at least two people and causing damage to properties.

The country was hit by its second major flooding on April 13, when heavy rains triggered widespread inundations in Sana'a, also resulting in two fatalities and massive damage.

The third wave hit on April 22 when the government declared Aden a disaster area, following catastrophic flash flooding that claimed at least 10 lives.

"Countless families have lost everything," said Lisa Grande, the Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen. "This tragedy comes on top of the COVID-19 crisis, which comes on top of the pre-famine last year, which came on top of the worst cholera outbreak in modern history."

Among the worst-hit areas are Aden, Abyan, Lahj, Marib, and Sana’a governorates, as well as Sana’a City.

Roads, bridges, and houses have been damaged. Electricity grids were hit and water supplies have been contaminated, cutting thousands of people's access to basic needs. The situation was even harder for thousands of displaced families who have lost their homes, household supplies, and food rations.

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"Truly, none of us know how much more suffering the people of Yemen can take," Grande stated.

Humanitarian agencies have promptly provided aid to the affected population, including emergency health care, clean water, survival items, food, and even shelter. Organizations are also involved in draining water and cleaning inundated areas.

"The solution is clear. The parties to the conflict need to find the courage to stop fighting and start negotiating," Grande pointed out. "This is the only way this never-ending tragedy will finally stop." 

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Image credit: NRC Middle East

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Image credit: NRC Middle East

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Image credit: NRC Middle East

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​Image credit: NRC Middle East

UNHCR calls the situation in Yemen the world's worst humanitarian tragedy– almost 80 percent of the population needs some form of humanitarian help and protection. In addition, 10 million others are in danger of famine, while seven million are already malnourished. 

If financial assistance will not be given, 31 out of 41 major humanitarian programs by the UN will either be stopped or lessened.

As of April 27, parts of the country are still suffering from widespread inundations, with roads and streets looking like rivers.

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YouTube video

Featured image credit: NRC Middle East

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