Tropical Storm Daniel - Sep 2023

Storm Daniel developed in Greece and was named by the Hellenic National Meteorological Service. [It] caused record-breaking rainfall in Greece on 5-6 September, with a reported 750 mm falling in 24 hours at a station in the village of Zagora. This is the equivalent of about 18 months of rainfall. In Thessaly, central Greece, many stations received 400 to 600 mm of rainfall in 24 hours. Thessaly is Greece’s agricultural heartland, and so the economic impacts are expected to be serious. (WMO, 12 Sep 2023)

On 10 September, Storm Daniel made landfall in Libya causing severe weather conditions, including strong winds and sudden heavy rainfall affecting several northeastern areas of Libya (Benghazi, Tobruk, Toukra, Talmeitha, Almarj, Taknes (Al Jabal Al Akhdar), Al Owailia, Bayada, Albayda, Shahhat, Sousa and Derna). The storm reportedly led to significant infrastructure damage, including road network, disrupted the telecommunications network, and caused the displacement of at least 410 families (or around 2,050 individuals) and 35 migrants. (IOM, 11 Sep 2023)

Following the flood and flash flood events that hit north-eastern Libya, according to WHO sources as of 14 September, over 5,000 are presumed dead, with a total of 3,922 deaths having been registered in hospitals. Over 10,000 people are still missing, so the numbers are likely an underestimation given the limited data available. Humanitarian partners are requesting USD 71.4 million to respond to the most urgent needs of 250,000 people targeted out of the 884,000 people estimated to be in need, over the next three months. Following the activation of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism on 12 September, 7 EU Member States (DE, FI, FR, IT, NL, RO, BE) have offered assistance consisting of an emergency medical team, search and rescue teams and equipment, heavy machinery, technical expertise and in-kind assistance (shelter, food and non-food items, power generators). In addition to EUR 500 000 released earlier this week to respond to urgent wash and health needs, DG ECHO has mobilised another EUR 5,2 million to address needs resulting from the floods, bringing the total funding to 5,7 million.(ECHO, 15 Sep 2023)

According to UNHCR and UN OCHA, as of 21 September, the death toll reached more than 4,000 people, over 9,000 people remain currently still missing (in Derna) and 43,059 displaced (of which 24,500 in Derna, 3,000 in Al Bayda, 2,780 in Benghazi and 1,500 in Al Marj). In addition, IOM DTM reports over 900 relocated families from the affected area in eastern Libya and Derna toward western Libya, including in the Capital Tripoli. The reported figures are likely to increase as emergency interventions are ongoing. Over the next 48 hours, drier conditions are still forecast over the whole country. The EU Civil Protection Mechanism was activated on 12 September, so far various Member States delivered Search and Rescue Teams, Emergency Medical Teams, shelter and medical items, water tanks, generators and other items. The Copernicus Emergency Management Service (EMSR696) was activated and eight maps have been produced. (ECHO, 22 Sep 2023)

Morocco: Earthquake - Sep 2023

On 8 September 2023 at 22.11 UTC powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck Morocco at 18.5 km depth. The epicentre was in the High Atlas Mountains, 71km (44 miles) south-west of Marrakesh. Marrakesh, with a population of 840,000 inhabitants is most impacted city. According to media, several houses have collapsed and other building were reported with structural damage. The epicentral area is not densely populated. As of 12:00 am, according to national media, the death toll has reached at least 820 and this figure is likely to increase over the day. The ERCC activated Copernicus satellite mapping service and Aristotle emergency reporting.(ECHO, 9 Sep 2023)

Following the magnitude-6.8 earthquake that hit the Kingdom of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountain range on 8 September, a total of 2,122 people are reported to have lost their lives; the vast majority in Al-Haouz, the epicenter, and Taroudant provinces. Another 2,421 individuals are reported as injured. Initial assessments indicate that WASH, shelter, health, and food assistance are required. Several aftershocks have been reported, families still trapped under the rubble of their homes, road blockages and difficult geographic conditions remain challenging to conduct search and rescue interventions. Many residents sought refuge outdoors, fearing additional seismic activity and enduring unsettling aftershocks. (OCHA, 10 Sep 2023)

After the 6.8 M earthquake of 8 September in Al Haouz Province, the number of casualties is increasing. According to the national authorities, 2,946 people died while the amount of injured people reached 5,674. The Government of Morocco is conducting the emergency response, in addition, the UN continues close communication with the national authorities.(ECHO, 14 Sep 2023)

Brazil: Floods - Sep 2023

Intense weather is causing casualties and damage across southern Brazil. Since 4 September, an extratropical cyclone, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds and hailstorms, has been severely affecting the states of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. According to the latest assessment from the Civil Defence in Rio Grande do Sul, the severe weather has affected at least 340,928 people across 93 municipalities, leaving 46 people dead, 46 people missing and 924 injured. Some 3,130 people have been rescued, while 20,498 residents have been displaced and a further 4,794 have been left homeless. In certain areas, river levels have surged to 17 metres above average, obstructing access from the capital city of Porto Alegre and the state's northern regions. This has complicated both the delivery of aid and the assessment of damages. In the state of Rio Grande do Sul, millions have been exposed to the impact of the cyclone and thousands directly impacted with damages to their homes. Entire communities are isolated and people have been waiting to be rescued. Both states are currently responding with their own resources and capacities. While the volumes of rain that have occurred in the first days of September have already exceeded the historical average in most parts of Rio Grande do Sul, the state’s Civil Defence and Secretariat of the Environment and Infrastructure (SEMA) have warned of continued severe weather from Monday 11 September through Friday 15 September. Meteorologists explain that the conditions of El Niño are influencing normal meteorological systems, bringing cold fronts, low pressure and extratropical cyclones that lead to greater frequency and intensity of rainfall. (OCHA, 11 Sep 2023)

On 14 September 2023, the state government of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, published an update on the heavy rains affecting the state. There were 354,711 people affected (7,059 increase since the 13 September report), 940 people were reported with injuries (15 increase), and 25,855 people were displaced (544 increase since the 12 September report). (PAHO, 15 Sep 2023)

Liberia: Floods - Sep 2023

From 1st to 4th September, Liberia experienced excessive heavy rainfall in several cities with highest flooding reported in North-Eastern counties of Liberia: Grand Cape Mount, Bong and Montserrado. Areas especially affected are Kru Town; Gbarnga City and Monrovia coastal and urban side as well as the surrounding areas. In total, around 15,200 people are reported to be affected by both urban and coastal floods which swept away infrastructure, fishing settlements, houses, communities' facilities etc. On 4th September, Monrovia and its environs recorded the major impact following the five days cumulative rains from 30 August that affected approximately 12,450 persons (1,778 HHs). The affected are mostly surrounding Monrovia or bordering Sierra Leone and the river crossing the North East of the country. The Liberia Meteorological Department has predicted continuous rains in September and October 2023 across all counties in the country. Obviously, with continuous heavy rainfall, it could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers and streams. (IFRC, 15 Sep 2023)

Guatemala: Dengue Outbreak - Aug 2023

In Guatemala, as reported by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance, the Dengue outbreak situation is growing increasingly alarming. There has been a staggering 178% increase in the number of cases, with 14,299 cases recorded up to epidemiological week 34 (ending on 26 August 2023), compared to the same period in 2022 when there were only 5,150 cases. Adding to the severity of the situation, thirteen Departmental Directorates of Integrated Health Services Networks are currently experiencing a higher incidence of dengue than the national average. Following Zacapa, the most vulnerable areas include Chiquimula, Petén Sur Oriental, Escuintla, Quetzaltenango, Baja Verapaz, Sacatepéquez, Jutiapa, Petén Norte, El Quiche, Santa Rosa, Izabal and Jalapa. The latest epidemiological situation update issued by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance of Guatemala, with data up to week 34 (ending 26 August 2023) show an increase to 14,299 cases of dengue, including 36 (0.25%) cases of severe dengue and 28 deaths, representing a fatality rate of 0.19%. As of the first days of September, 39 new suspected cases of severe dengue have been reported, 26 cases have been confirmed, of which 21 have died and 12 are under investigation. (IFRC, 15 Sep 2023)

Chad: Dengue Outbreak - Aug 2023

The Ministry of Health declared the outbreak of Dengue fever in Abeche health district, Ouadai province, on 15 August 2023. Coordination at the central level is ongoing, including regular meetings and elaboration of the response plan. Epidemiological activities, including epidemiological investigation and surveillance, are ongoing in the affected district. Laboratory activities, including sampling and testing cases, continue. In total, eight out of 12 samples tested in Chad were positive for Dengue fever. Samples were sent to the Institut Pasteur in Cameroon for confirmation. Case management of suspected and confirmed cases is ongoing. Risk communication and community engagement activities are ongoing, including sensitizing the population to use mosquito nets. (WHO, 28 Aug 2023)

Kyrgyzstan: Measles and Rubella Outbreak - Aug 2023

According to the Republican Center for Immunoprophylaxis of the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, since the beginning of 2023, the epidemiological situation in the country for measles and rubella has deteriorated. The first cases were reported in the first epidemiological week in Bishkek city and Chui regions, and, starting from the eighth epidemiological week, it has spread to Osh city and Osh region. Then it has spread to an additional 34 districts in 5 regions. The government of the Kyrgyz Republic has not officially declared an outbreak. For reference, as per the WHO, the definition of a suspected measles outbreak is five or more measles cases (with dates of rash onset occurring 7–21 days apart) that are epidemiologically linked, and the definition of a laboratory-confirmed measles outbreak is two or more laboratory-confirmed measles cases that are temporally related (with dates of rash onset occurring 7–21 days apart) and epidemiologically or virologically linked, or both). As of 21 August 2023, 2,743 suspected cases of measles and/or rubella were reported, from which 1,774 were classified as measles (945 laboratory confirmed cases, 323 clinically confirmed cases, and 506 are epidemiologically linked). Measles incidence per 1 million population for the period of May 2022 to April 2023 is 49.47 cases, which is the second highest in the WHO Europe region. The country reported 11 cases of rubella in the period between May 2022 and April 2023, the fourth highest in the WHO Europe region during this period. On 14 August, the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic announced two confirmed deaths due to complications of measles (https://med.kg/pressCenter/news/61e9431c-4e8a-422c-b550-6a3429742350). One (1) case was reported in Bishkek (a three-year old child) and one (1) case in Chui region (a one-year old child). In both cases, the children were not vaccinated according to the National vaccination calendar, as parents decided against immunization due to religious reasons. (IFRC, 1 Sep 2023)

Kyrgyzstan: Floods and Mudslides - Aug 2023

On 7 August 2023, around 17:00 hours local time, mudflows occurred in the villages of Ken-Suu, Bayzak, Taldy-Suu, Korumdu, and Koochu in the Tup district of the Issyk-Kul region due to short-term rains. The Ministry of Emergency Situations (MoES) and local authorities formed a joint commission to have a thorough and transparent assessment of damages. According to the MoES and local authorities, 200 households were directly impacted by the disaster, however, preliminarily, 60% of the total population (13,000 people) of the five affected villages are in need of assistance of various degrees. (IFRC, 28 Aug 2023)

Bangladesh: Floods and Landslides - Aug 2023

On 7 August, heavy rain triggered flash floods in South-eastern Bangladesh as major rivers flowed far above their danger levels, leaving many areas submerged in Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Bandarban and Feni. Landslides left four people dead and six injured, and damaged 718 houses. More than 190 temporary shelters have been opened and 43 medical teams mobilised. The government has allocated 20 tons of rice and cash support and BDRCS is intervening via early warning and emergency distributions. In Cox’s Bazar refugees’ camps, 9,237 individuals have been impacted (10 people injured, 2 casualties, 1,192 displaced). More than 1,430 shelters have been damaged and facilities affected. Relocation and emergency response is ongoing. (ECHO, 8 Aug 2023)

Severe damages have been inflicted upon the Chattogram Division (Chittangon), specifically in the districts of Chattogram, Bandarban, Cox's Bazar, and Rangamati, due to heavy rainfall and water flowing down from the hills. The UNOSAT FloodAI Monitoring Dashboard reported a total exposed population of 2.4 million in the four districts between 5 to 10 August 2023, with 1.2 million people affected. The Divisional Health Office Chattogram reported 26 casualties as of 10 August. Humanitarian organizations reported that a staggering 90 per cent of the Bandarban district has been submerged in water. (OCHA, 13 Aug 2023)

Since August 5, continuous monsoon rains have affected Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Rangamati, and Bandarban. Heavy rainfall, ranging from 44 to 89 mm, led to flash floods and landslides in the Hill Tracts, especially in Bandarban town and nearby areas. 1.3 million people including 630,000 women and 480,000 children (0-19 years old) are affected while 600,000 people are in need of humanitarian assistance in four districts (Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Ragamati, and Bandarban), with 51 deaths reported. Major rivers in the region were overflowing, crippling major transport routes, and resulting in the damage of up to 410 kilometres of roads. (UNICEF, 5 Sep 2023)

In Cox’s Bazar, approximately 538,373 people (including 25,533 in Rohingya camps and 185,200 children) were exposed after the floods and landslides, while nearly 85,500 people (3,500 children and 3,974 Rohingya refugees) were displaced and sheltered in temporary flood shelters. (UNICEF, 25 Sep 2023)

Guinea: Floods - Aug 2023

Guinea has been experiencing persistent torrential rains since the beginning of August 2023. The highest recorded incidents were on Sunday 6 August 2022 in Coyah, and on Friday 11 August 2023 in Conakry and Siguiri, with rains causing associated impacts, including flooding in low-lying areas as well as the overflow of rivers. Major roads in Conakry and Siguiri were rendered impassable due to the flood waters, heavily constraining vehicles, and pedestrians having to find alternative routes. Different prefectures across the country continue to experience more heavy rains which may cause flooding in additional communities and increase the number of affected people. Furthermore, the areas affected by the floods have already been experiencing acute humanitarian needs due to economic hardship and financial instability. The current disaster has augmented the severity of the situation for these vulnerable communities. (IFRC, 31 Aug 2023)

Lao PDR: Floods and Landslides - Aug 2023

Steady rains since 31 July have affected thousands of families and inundated hundreds of hectares of farmland in the central Lao province of Savannnakhet. About 5,200 families across 28 villages and 200 hectares of farmland Savannnakhet’s Atsaphon district have been affected. The Lao Meteorology and Hydrology Department forecasts continuation of rains in the central and southern provinces and warned the people along Xechamphone River in Savannakhet and across valleys in Khammuan province for further flooding and landslides over the next 2 days. Provincial authorities are mobilising resources and preparing to assist the affected population. (ECHO, 4 Aug 2023)

The southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall over Lao PDR resulting in flooding and landslides incident since 4 August 2023. According to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH), a flood warning due to the southwest monsoon has been issued since 1 August regarding water levels across Lao PDR. [...] As of the reports on 9 August, 13,777 households were affected over 417 villages in Vientiane Capital, Huaphanh, Xayaboury, Xiengkhuang, Vientiane, Borikhamxay, Khammuane, Savannakhet, Champasack, and Xaysomboon Provinces in Lao PDR. According to the reports, there are estimated of 50.7% of the total affected population are women. 6 persons dead (4 in Xaysomboon and 2 in Borikhamxay) and 1 person missing. 231 houses, 3 health centres, 3 schools, 94 roads, 5 bridges, and 225 other facilities were damaged. [...] According to the Meteorology and Hydrology Department’s weekly weather forecast, Lao PDR is likely to continue to experience light to moderate rain, with possible landslides and flash floods along river banks. (AHA Centre, 9 Aug 2023)

Widespread flooding and landslides caused damages to 183,950.35 hectors of agriculture, 67 roads, 67 irrigation systems, 3 district hospitals, 3 schools, and 110 vehicles. The estimated cost of damages was 19,199,305,000 LAK (equivalent 857,422 CHF). Provinces hit hardest include Borikhamxay and Khammuan. Due to heavy rainfall, a section of the Mekong River embankment in Vientiane collapsed, causing flooding in low-lying farmlands. (IFRC, 16 Aug 2023)

According to updated information from the government report, which was released on 21 August 2023, [...] it was estimated that 22,024 families, comprising 110,120 individuals (including an estimated 55,170 females), residing in 550 villages across 50 districts within 12 provinces, including Vientiane Capital, Bokeo, Luang Prabang, Houaphan, Xaignabouli, Xiangkhouang, Vientiane, Bolikhamxai, Khammouan, Savannakhet, Champasak, and Xaixomboun, were affected. There were six people lost their lives , and one person is missing due to the flooding. [...] Furthermore, the flood and landslides caused damage of agriculture 190,467 hector, Barn 106 (storage to stock rice), 18,776 loss of livestock, 154 road to become impassable, 79 irrigations didn’t function, 10 schools, 3 district hospitals, 225 toilets, 12 electric poles, 310 vehicles. [...] Vulnerable individuals especially children under five years old face risks of malnutrition due to loss of crops, rice storage, damage to plantations and food sources. (IFRC, 18 Sep 2023)

Slovenia: Floods - Aug 2023

On 3-4 August, severe weather with heavy rain affected western, northern, eastern and central parts of the country, causing severe flooding and landslides. Some areas were inaccessible and necessary evacuations of residents took place. Slovenian Environment Agency (ARSO) has issued a red weather alert and the national emergency response plan for floods has been activated. The national authorities confirmed one person died. On 5 August, severe weather conditions continued to affect the country. Heaviest precipitation was reported mainly in the foothills of the Julian Alps and along the line of the Zidanško–Idrija region, through Gorenjska towards Koroška and the Upper Savinjska region. The Savinja Valley, Gorenjska and Koroška regions were severely affected, as a bridge on the main transport road was swept away and many state roads remain closed due to the flooding. During the day and overnight the precipitation moved to the south-east of Slovenia towards Kočevje, Kolpa and Bela Krajina region, where highest risk levels were declared. On 6 August severe weather conditions persisted in Slovenia with rivers still overflowing across the country. The Sava River flooded heavily. Drava River was stabilised in the upper reaches and was moderated in the lower reaches. Mura river in Gornja Radgona was stabilised. It was reported that embankment on Mura river near settlement Krapje Verzej was breached. The Krka river overflowed in some areas. Problematic areas concerned the Sava and Krka rivers confluence around Krška Vas. The water level of Drava river slowly receded. Its flow, including from the Austrian side, was under control. A similar pattern was also observed for Mura river. On 7 August, the situation in Slovenia has slightly improved, however the situation remained critical since some rivers were still overflowing across the country. The heavy rainfall caused widespread damage leading to the collapse of at least seven main and regional bridges and mainly impacted roads and the energy infrastructure. Many more local bridges were damaged. On 8 August access to remote areas and areas affected by landslides still remained difficult. Approximately two-thirds of Slovenia's territory is currently grappling with the aftermath of flash floods, torrential rain, and hailstorm, with 181 municipalities affected out of the total of 212. In total, 8,000 people have been evacuated to their relatives or other accommodation facilities, and six people have lost their lives as a consequence of the disaster. Heavily affected regions include Upper Carniola, Central Slovenia, Koroška region, as well as Savinjska region. [...] In the most affected areas, communication is disrupted and there is severe damage to infrastructure. Over 170 landslides are active, posing a continued threat to homes, infrastructure, and electricity. [...] On 11 August, the Ministry of Defense reported that by their first estimates more than 400 buildings (some including multiple housing units) were completely destroyed or declared uninhabitable. The loss of assets, homes and businesses, livestock, crops and infrastructure will affect job security and livelihoods in the mid-to long term. Because of the continuous threat of landslides, it is expected that more households will become in need of long-term shelter and basic needs support during the upcoming months. (IFRC, 17 Aug 2023)

Sri Lanka: Drought - Aug 2023

Drought-like conditions are affecting various locations in Sri Lanka as a result of below-average rainfall in the first half of 2023 and water shortages in reservoirs. According to the latest update from the National Disaster Relief Service Centre (NDRSC), nearly 150,000 people across 10 districts lack safe drinking water. Jaffna, Ampara, and Batticaloa are the hardest hit, accounting for 85% of the affected population. The cultivation of around 50,000 farmers was also affected due to a lack of irrigation water in reservoirs. Farmers in the southwest have been protesting for weeks, demanding water for crops. The local authorities are distributing drinking water to 128,431 people in the affected districts. (ECHO, 9 Aug 2023)

Despite a revival of the Southwest Monsoon forecast several provinces including northern, north-central, and eastern provinces are recording normal to below average rainfall received from August to October. Short-term forecast till 12th September shows a reduction of rainfall including northern, north-central, and eastern provinces. However, the western, southern and central parts of the country will significant rainfall 7 days. With the significant reduction in rainfall in 25 out of 25 districts last month, fears of drought have been raised in many parts of the island. Standardize Precipitation Index (SPI) 3-month for August 2023 explains the drier condition in the entire country and the dry spell has become more than 15 days in Uva, Eastern, North Central, North and Northwestern provinces of the country. Vegetation conditions in reference to 16th July to 15th August 2023 are poor condition in most of the provinces in the entire country. (IWMI, 6 Sep 2023)

Viet Nam: Floods and Landslides - Aug 2023

Floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains on 30-31 July in Lam Dong, Binh Thuan, and Bac Lieu Provinces in central and southern Vietnam resulted in casualties and damage. Media reports six people killed (4 in Lam Dong and 2 in Binh Thuan) and one missing due to landslides and drowning. 89 houses have been fully damaged and 346 are partially damaged. Nearly 2,900 hectares of rice have been submerged, and 184.8 hectares of other crops have also been reported damaged. Torrential rains have also eroded and damaged many National Highway sections and rural roads, including a National Highway 20 section passing through Bao Loc Pass, resulting in traffic disruption. The National Committee for Disaster Response, Search, and Rescue, the Ministry of National Defense, and the Ministry of Public Security are responding to the crisis in coordination with other line ministries and local people. (ECHO, 2 Aug 2023)

Since 4 August, northern Vietnam has experienced severe flooding and landslides due to heavy rainfall, resulting in casualties and significant damages. ADINet reported that four people died, three are injured, and nearly 460 have been affected in Lai Chau and Dien Bien Provinces. Furthermore, 100 homes across north-western Vietnam have been damaged or destroyed. More heavy rain is forecast, and warnings of further floods and landslides have been issued. (ECHO, 7 Aug 2023)

On 6-7 August, heavy rain affected northern Vietnam, causing floods and resulting in damage. According to the ASEAN Disaster Information Network (ADINet), one person died and 520 people have been affected by floods in Lao Cai Province, northwestern Vietnam. In addition, 104 houses have been damaged in Lao Cai City and Bao Thang District, central Lao Cai Province. (ECHO, 8 Aug 2023)

Floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains since 2 August in the northern mountainous region of Vietnam have resulted in causalities and damage. According to DG ECHO Partners, at least 12 people have died, five have been injured, and three are missing. A total of 30,000 people have been affected and 2,940 people have been displaced and are sheltering in safer locations. (ECHO, 11 Aug 2023)

As per a report released by the Vietnam Disaster Management Authority on August 10, 2023, flooding has had a significant impact on approximately 215,000 individuals since August 2. This widespread occurrence has unfolded across ten provinces, specifically in Lai Chau, Yen Bai, Son La, Lao Cai, Dien Bien, Thai Nguyen, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, and Lam Dong. Among these provinces, the areas which are most severely affected include Yen Bai, Lai Chau, Lao Cai, and Dak Nong. In light of this situation, there have been 13 reported fatalities, along with 2 individuals currently missing and 8 individuals sustaining injuries. The ongoing and protracted rainfall in the affected regions continues to pose a threat, potentially leading to flash floods and landslides. This heightened risk is attributed to the soil's projected saturation point, a consequence of the persistent rain that has persisted for several days. (IFRC, 18 Aug 2023)

On 12 September, heavy rainfall, strong winds and thunderstorms occurred in Lao Cai Province, northern Vietnam, causing flash floods, and landslides that resulted in casualties. According to the ASEAN Disaster Information Network (ADINet), at least nine people died while four others are still missing across the affected province. The media reports damage to 21 homes, 61 fishing farms, and 180 ha of standing crops in the provinces of Lao Cai, Ha Giang, and Yen Bai. Local authorities mobilised about 300 people to participate in search and rescue activities. (ECHO, 14 Sep 2023)

Tropical depression THIRTEEN, formed over the South China Sea tracked northwestward and made landfall over Thua Thien Hue Province (central-eastern Vietnam) on 25 September bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. THIRTEEN is forecast to cross central Vietnam and Laos and dissipate across eastern Cambodia. The national authority of Vietnam has issued necessary preparedness and mitigation measures directives to provinces in Quang Binh and Phu Yen. The Vietnam Red Cross Society has activated its National Disaster Response Team (NDRT) for deployment to at-risk regions to support local communities and reduce disaster risks. (ECHO, 26 Sep 2023)

Indonesia: Floods and Landslides - Aug 2023

Heavy rainfall has been affecting northern Indonesia (in particular Sumatra Island) since 13 August, causing floods and landslides that have resulted in damage. According to ASEAN Disaster Information Network (ADINet) reports, as of 13 August, nearly 2,000 people and over 500 affected houses have been affected by floods and landslides in Pesisir Selatan Regency, West Sumatra Province. (ECHO, 14 Aug 2023)

Floods occurring in northern Indonesia, particularly Sumatra Island, on 14 August continue to cause damage and displacement. Heavy rains in Pesisir Selatan Regency on 17 August triggered further flooding and landslides in two sub-districts. According to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), the floods have affected 2,852 people (713 families) across 10 villages in Pesisir Selatan District, West Sumatra. On 16 August, 100 families reported being displaced by floodwaters. (ECHO, 18 Aug 2023)

Heavy rainfall has been affecting northern Indonesia (in particular the Sulawesi Island) since 27 August, causing floods and landslides that have resulted in casualties and damage. The ASEAN Disaster Information Network (ADINet) reports, as of 28 August, one fatality, a total of more than 1,500 affected people and nearly 600 damaged houses across the Bolaang Mongondow Selatan Regency (North Sulawesi Province). (ECHO, 28 Aug 2023)

Heavy rainfall has affected northern Indonesia, in particular Langkat Regency in North Sumatra Province on 30 August, causing floods that have resulted in damage. The ASEAN Disaster Information Network (ADINet) reports, as of 31 August, 4,464 affected people and nearly 1,116 damaged houses across the Batang Serangandue and the Padang Tualang District, in northern Langkat Regency, due to the overflow of the Batang Serangan River. (ECHO, 31 Aug 2023)

According to the ASEAN Disaster Information Network, as of 4 September, 4,089 affected people and nearly 2,939 damaged houses have been reported in Gunung Sitoli City (North Sumatra Province) due to the overflow of the Nou, Boyo, Idanoi, Afia, and Gido Sebua River. Moreover, 1,449 people have been affected by flooding and nearly 302 houses have been damaged in Morotai Island (North Maluku Province). (ECHO, 4 Sep 2023)

Heavy rainfall has been affecting northern Indonesia, in particular the Sumatra Island, since 1 September, causing floods that have resulted in casualties and damage. The Indonesian National Board for Disaster Management (BNPB) and the ASEAN Disaster Information Network (ADINet) report two fatalities and more than 1,000 evacuated people across the Labuhanbatu Regency (North Sumatra Province), where the worst affected is the Bilah Hilir District. In addition, in the same province, approximately 50 evacuated people and nearly 350 damaged houses were reported across the Medan Regency. (ECHO, 6 Sep 2023)

Heavy rainfall has been affecting northern Indonesia, in particular the Sumatra Island, since 1 September, causing floods that have resulted in damage and displacement. The ASEAN Disaster Information Network (ADINet) reports 3,016 affected people across the Asahan Regency (North Sumatra Province), and 754 damaged houses across Teluk Dalam, Simpang Empat and Meranti Districts. (ECHO, 8 Sep 2023)

According to the ASEAN Disaster Information Network (ADINet), more than 1,600 people have been affected by floods as well as 412 houses in Medan City in North Sumatra Province. In addition, almost 500 people have been affected in Simeulue Island, Aceh Province due to another flood event. (ECHO, 18 Sep 2023)

As of 20 September, the most affected areas are Nunukan Regency in North Kalimantan Province (northern Indonesia), where 7,874 people and 1,682 houses have been affected by flooding, and Aceh Selatan Regency in Aceh Province in western Indonesia, where 931 people and 263 houses have been affected. Another affected province is West Sumatra, in particular Pariaman and Padang Pariaman Cities, in western Sumatra, with 160 and 152 affected people respectively. (ECHO, 22 Sep 2023)

Mauritania: Floods - Jul 2023

During the evening of Sunday 30 July 2023 to Monday 31 July 2023, the department of Boghé experienced heavy rainfalls for several hours affecting 26 towns and amounting to 2708mm of water, with some areas experiencing more than 150mm. So far, one death has been registered in the village of Hamdallah. Several items and infrastructures have been damaged in affected areas, including food stocks, roads, seawalls, latrines and electricity infrastructures and services. The collapse of several houses has caused the displacement of several families. Families that have lost their houses have taken shelter in schools or in relatives or neighbors houses that were not affected by the heavy rain falls. The flood has been caused by the outpouring rain that came from village of Aari Hara situated in the mountains next to the department of Boghé. Boghé was mostly affected, with more than 8,000 affected people out of 42',546, mostly around the water banks of the Senegal river. Other communes like Ould Birom and Dar El Avia have experienced a lower amount of affected people. (IFRC, 30 Aug 2023)

Guatemala: Floods - Jul 2023

Heavy rainfall and strong winds have been affecting most of Guatemala since the beginning of the rainy season in May 2023. The severe weather has resulted in flooding, landslides and significant damage. According to the National Coordination for Disaster Reduction (CONRED), as of 27 July, weather-related incidents have affected more than 916,000 people, leaving at least 16 people dead, 4 injured and forcing the evacuation of some 3,084. (OCHA, 31 July 2023)

The humanitarian impact continues to increase in the most parts of Guatemala following the rainy season that has been affecting the country since May 2023. As of 3 August, 22 people died in nine Departments, one is still missing, and four have been injured. In addition, 4,224 people have been evacuated and almost 1,281,000 others affected. Over the next 24 hours, more rainfall with locally heavy rain is forecast over central and southern Guatemala. (ECHO, 4 Aug 2023)

On 25 September, heavy rain affected the Guatemala City area causing the overflow of the El Naranjo River and resulting in casualties and damage. According to the Coordinadora Nacional para la Reducción de Desastres, three people died, 15 others are still missing and six houses have been severely damaged by the flood event. National authorities are conducting the search and rescue operations. On 26-27 September, scattered thunderstorms are forecast over the affected area. (ECHO, 26 Sep 2023)

Syria: Wild Fires - Jul 2023

Fires started since end of June in Homs, and the intensity of the fires increased from 15 July 2023 with the peak intensity on 25 July and lasted for few days, including Homs, Hama, and Latakia governorates. Most of the fires were in rugged mountainous remote areas. The intensity and size of bushfires in some areas have led to the creation of their own weather systems, generating pyro cumulonimbus clouds, trapping heat, and generating strong wind, in turn sparking further fires. High winds have also helped the bushfires to spread, with some fires jumping over highways and roads. These fires led to material and environmental damage, as a few homes of a number of residents were torched, in addition to burning agricultural crops on which they depend as a main source of livelihood, in addition to burning a large part of the vegetation, forests, and natural reserves. [...] The communities affected by the recent fires, are already exhausted due to complicated reasons including the effects of the continuous Syrian crises, climate change, and the last earthquake. Families were suffering to hold their resilience and protect their livelihoods, among huge lack of resources, funding, aid, water, electricity, proper infrastructure, etc. (IFRC, 11 Aug 2023)

Algeria: Wild Fires - Jul 2023

Around 35 wildfires have been rapidly spreading across the northeastern region of Algeria in more than 11 regions since July 24th, causing extensive devastation. The disaster has had a profound impact on 6,000 families, with the Algerian Government reporting 34 confirmed deaths. The affected population heavily relies on crops and livestock, both of which have been severely impacted by the wildfires, resulting in further hardships for the communities. Many homes have been reduced to ashes, leaving families displaced and vulnerable. The dire situation has also affected the health of the population, as the flames and smoke have led to thousands of injuries. The magnitude of the disaster requires urgent attention and support to address the immediate needs of those affected. However, the prevailing weather conditions remain a cause for concern. With temperatures exceeding 45°C and wind speeds exceeding 50 km/h on the Tunisian borders, coupled with low humidity, the conditions continue to favor the expansion and intensification of the wildfires. (IFRC, 07 Aug 2023)

Afghanistan: Floods - Jul 2023

Heavy rainfall has been affecting central and eastern Afghanistan, in particular the Maidan Wardak Province, the Khost Province and the Kabul area, since 22 July, causing flash floods that have resulted in casualties and damage. As of 24 July, 31 fatalities, 41 persons still missing and 74 injured people are reported across Jalrez, Saydabad, Chaki Wardak and Maidan Shahr Districts, Maidan Wardak Province. Around 600 houses were reported damaged or destroyed across the same Province. In addition, media also reports four fatalities in the Kabul Capital City area and one more in the Khost Province, also in these cases due to flash floods. (ECHO, 24 Jul 2023)

As of 30 July 2023, according to reports from various sources including the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS) and the Afghan National Disaster Management Authority (ANDMA), flash floods have led to the loss of 61 lives, left 24 people injured and six people missing. The province of Maidan Wardak is the most impacted and accounts for 37 of the 61 human lives lost. Based on the preliminary findings of the initial rapid assessment carried out by the ARCS, approximately 126,000 people have been affected by the disaster in 18 provinces. The flash floods have also partially or completely damaged 1,360 residential houses and washed away over 13,023 hectares of agricultural land and killed at least 1,128 livestock. [...] Some of the provinces such as Badakhshan, Maidain Wardak and Nangahar have experienced such floods for the first time while others have experienced more severe floods this year than the ones in the past. The country is particularly vulnerable to variations in access to arable land and water due to drought that have been affecting the country for the last three consecutive years. New areas are experiencing floods due to dryness of land caused by drought for three consecutive years. (IFRC, 7 Aug 2023)

Between 1 and 30 July, heavy rains intensified and flash flooding affected some 6,193 people across eight provinces of Afghanistan – 1,071 people in Kabul; 1,345 people in Kunar; 130 people in Laghman, 1,617 people in Maidan Wardak; 755 people in Nangarhar, 574 people in Nuristan; 581 people in Parwan; and 120 people in Zabul. Some 40 people were reportedly killed and 30 others were injured, while some 551 houses were damaged, and 121 others were destroyed. OCHA and humanitarian partners are conducting assessments alongside providing lifesaving assistance to the affected families. The number of people affected is anticipated to increase based on forecasts of more heavy rains and flooding in August, according to the Afghanistan meteorological department. (OCHA, 9 Aug 2023)