Floods across Yemen have killed people and left over 46,500 without homes after weeks of heavy rain and storms battered the war-torn country, according to official press release from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The flooding started in early August and has swept away entire communities. Thousands of families who were already living in camps and shelters now have even less.
Yemen saw similar flooding last year that also killed people and destroyed homes. But this year’s storms hit harder and more often. Climate change makes things worse for countries already dealing with war and poverty. When floods come, people have nowhere safe to go and no strong buildings to protect them.
“The floods in Yemen are another devastating blow for families who have already lost so much,” said Abdusattor Esoev, who runs IOM’s operations in Yemen. “People are once again left without homes, belongings, and a sense of safety. They need protection, they need assistance, and above all, they need the international community to stand with them.” IOM workers are giving out tents, clean water, and cash to help families buy food. But they don’t have enough money to help everyone who needs it.
The worst damage hit Ibb, Sana’a, Ma’rib, Al Hodeidah, and Ta’iz provinces. Floods destroyed houses, farms, and the camps where displaced people live. Cholera is spreading because sewage systems broke down and drinking water got contaminated. Hospitals can’t handle all the sick people.
IOM wants donors to send more money before more people die or lose their homes. With the COP30 climate summit coming up, Yemen shows what happens when poor countries get hit by climate disasters. The country needs better flood protection and water systems to save lives.
