Floods death toll rises to 35, humanitarian crisis deepens in Sudan’s River Nile

August 13, 2024 (ABU HAMAD) – The death toll from floods in the northern Sudanese city of Abu Hamad has risen to 35 after a student was electrocuted on Tuesday, residents and officials said, as the humanitarian crisis in the gold mining hub deepened.

Heavy rains have caused widespread destruction in the city, with residents reporting over 35,000 homes completely or partially destroyed. Government sources confirmed the collapse of at least 11,500 houses.

The flooding has also swept mining waste into the city, raising concerns about contamination and further health risks, according to a health expert and residents who spoke to local media.

The number of people injured has climbed to 588, some in critical condition, and medical aid is struggling to reach the affected areas.

“The situation is catastrophic,” one resident told Sudan Tribune. “We have lost our homes, our livelihoods, and now we are facing disease outbreaks.”

The Sudanese government has declared a state of emergency in the River Nile state and is appealing for international assistance.