Iraq: Floods - Dec 2025

Between 9 and 12 December 2025, northern Iraq was hit by intense and prolonged rainfall that triggered severe flash floods across the governorates of Sulaymaniyah, Kirkuk, Erbil, and Ninawa. The most significant impact occurred in Sulaymaniyah, particularly in Chamchamal, Raparin, Shorash, and Takiya, where extreme rainfall reaching 173.5 mm within four hours led to sudden, destructive flooding. Water entered hundreds of homes, schools, and public buildings, causing extensive material damage and disrupting essential services. As of 12 December 2025, a total of 16,230 people have been affected: 13,614 in Sulaymaniyah, 2,400 in Kirkuk, 180 in Ninawa, and 36 in Erbil. The floods have resulted in 6 confirmed fatalities, including children, and 19 injuries, with several individuals initially reported missing. Rapid rises in water levels overwhelmed drainage systems, swept away vehicles, and forced residents in low-lying neighborhoods to evacuate to safer areas. Critical infrastructure has suffered severe damage. Multiple bridges collapsed in Kirkuk and Garmiyan, while major roads connecting Sulaymaniyah–Chamchamal and Kirkuk–Chamchamal were temporarily cut off. Floodwaters also damaged power networks, causing electricity and internet outages across several districts. (IFRC, 20 Dec 2025)