South Sudan: MSF warns of devastating floods in coming months

July 24, 2024 (JUBA) – Devastating floods could hit South Sudan in the coming three months, thus worsening food insecurity and limiting access to safe water and proper sanitation facilities for the population, a medical charity has warned.

Medicines San Frontiers (MSF), in a statement issued on Wednesday, said up to 5.4 million people are expected to live in flood-affected areas of South Sudan.  It also projects a likelihood of increased rainfall between July and October.

These factors could cause flooding on a scale unprecedented in the last century.

This year’s predictions are particularly concerning for those in internally displaced people’s camps or transit centers where people live in overcrowded conditions.

“The predicted increase in rainfall in 2024 is very concerning given the number of people at risk in flood-prone areas; threats to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH); and the risk of water- and vector-borne disease transmission,” said Joe Aumuller, MSF epidemiologist activity manager.

The expected severe flooding, according to MSF, will likely force people to flee their homes, reduce the availability of crops and livestock needed for proper nutrition, disrupt aid delivery, and increase the chances of disease outbreaks.

Specifically cited is Hepatitis E, which is endemic in some places in South Sudan.

MSF expressed concerns over the health, nutrition and water and sanitation needs of the 740,000 refugees and returnees from Sudan, who will be joining nearly 2 million internally displaced people in South Sudan.

The statement also cites the likelihood of a rise in Malaria cases among children.

During the floods of 2021 and 2022, MSF said it reported a surge in diarrhea cases among children under five in Bentiu camp for the internally displaced people.

“This year’s predictions are particularly concerning for those in internally displaced people’s camps or transit centers where people are living in overcrowded conditions,” stressed Aumuller.

There are concerns that nutrition challenges could cause malnutrition, weakening a child’s immune system and harm their long-term health and development.

MSF urged leaders and additional humanitarian organizations to take immediate action to help protect the people from the devastating effects of floods by making sure water, health, and education systems in South Sudan are more resistant to climate change and can adapt to stronger and more frequent extreme weather events.

(ST)