Sudan is facing a severe humanitarian crisis after torrential rains caused the Arbaat dam in eastern Sudan to collapse, resulting in catastrophic flooding that wiped out at least 20 villages. The disaster has left at least 30 people dead, with potentially many more casualties, as over 150 to 200 people are reported missing. The UN and local authorities have confirmed that around 50,000 people have been affected by the flooding west of the dam, though the total impact could be far greater as the eastern areas remain inaccessible.
The dam, located 25 miles north of Port Sudan, was a critical infrastructure piece, providing water to the city, which serves as Sudan’s main port and a hub for displaced people, aid agencies, and the government. The destruction of the dam and subsequent flooding have devastated the region, which was already struggling due to the ongoing civil war between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Before the floods, Sudan’s infrastructure, including dams, roads, and bridges, was already deteriorating due to the conflict that began in April 2023. The civil war has diverted resources away from maintenance and repairs, exacerbating the impact of natural disasters. Heavy rains, which began earlier than usual this year, further weakened the Arbaat dam, leading to its eventual collapse.
In addition to the immediate loss of life and property, the floods have displaced thousands, with many seeking refuge in the surrounding mountains, now stranded and in desperate need of assistance. The Sudanese health ministry reported that the number of deaths due to flooding across the country has risen to 132, a significant increase from just two weeks ago. The UN estimates that at least 118,000 people have been displaced by the rains this year.
This disaster underscores the vulnerability of Sudan’s infrastructure in the face of both natural and man-made crises. The international community, aid organizations, and local authorities are urgently needed to provide relief and support to those affected by the floods and to rebuild critical infrastructure to prevent future tragedies.