- August 6, 2024
- Posted by: humanitarianweb
- Category: Humanitarian News
Yemen Facing High Risk of Flash Floods and Landslides Due to Heavy Rainfall
Yemen is expecting a period of heavy rainfall in the coming weeks, with the likelihood of flash floods and landslides significantly increasing. The country typically experiences heavier rainfall between August and September, benefiting agricultural activities, especially in the highlands and coastal plains. However, this year’s rainfall is predicted to be particularly intense, potentially leading to widespread damage, especially in low-lying agricultural communities.
Key Concerns:
- Excessive rainfall: The next 10 days are expected to see a cumulative rainfall of 300 mm across the Central Highlands and Southern Uplands, with the highest daily rainfall intensity (over 120 mm) forecasted for August 7th. Even drier Governorates like the Western Hadramaut are expected to receive up to 60 mm of rainfall.
- Flash Floods: High-risk areas for flash floods include Wadis Tuban, Raslan, Zabid, Rimah, Siham, along the southern and western coasts and west parts of wadi Al Jawf. Other areas like Wadi Banna, Wadi Mour, and Wadi Sordod are under an alert, while Harad is considered minimal risk.
- Agricultural Impacts: The excessive rainfall is predicted to damage crops, cause soil erosion, and disrupt agricultural livelihoods in low-lying areas along the Red Sea coast.
- Urban Impacts: Poor drainage systems in urban areas could be overwhelmed, leading to infrastructure damage, transportation disruption, and communication network breakdowns.
- Dust Storms: Coastal areas of the Gulf of Aden and the Eastern Plateau areas are expected to face dust storms, which can worsen preexisting bad conditions and trigger rainfall in typically dry areas.
- High Winds: Intense wind speeds in southern governorates are predicted to continue, posing a threat to farms and crop production.
Preventive Action:
It is crucial to take precautionary measures to mitigate the negative impacts of these extreme weather events within agricultural communities.
Early warning information, such as alerts about dust storms and protective measures, is essential to minimize risks.
The coming weeks present a critical period for Yemen as it faces the challenges of heavy rainfall and its associated risks. Preparedness, mitigation strategies, and community resilience are essential to navigate this challenging period.