Ethiopia: Floods - Jul 2022

Due to the heavy rains recorded in July and August, some regions have been affected by floods in the country. In Gambella, the regional authorities have reported that over half the population (more than 250,0000 people) have been affected by floods across eight of the 14 woredas, including 36,000 children. In addition, 75,000 people, including 10,000 children, have been displaced. The heavy rains in the neighbouring highland areas have also caused flash floods from the Awash River in Afar region, displacing over 70,000 people and causing damage to 59 schools, 21 health facilities, and 36 water supply points/schemes in 10 woredas. In addition, in Amhara, heavy rains have led to flooding and landslides, causing displacement, loss of lives and livelihoods, and damage to infrastructure. According to zonal authorities, flooding and landslides have so far affected over 260,000 people, destroying 51 schools impacting over 16,000 people in Wag Himra, Central Gondar, Oromo special zone and South Wollo zones. (UNICEF, 6 Oct 2022)

In 2022, heavy rains from early August to October caused flooding across 12 woredas and in the regional capital [in Gambella]. At least 185,200 people (37,040 households) were displaced (IDPs) and an additional 79,631 people (15,927 households) were affected. The displaced people are in dire situation, taking refuge in substandard and overcrowded shelters such as schools and health facilities or out in the open air. The IDPs rely on wild plant leaves and roots to fill the food gap. Assessments also revealed that 72 per cent of cropland was damaged (mostly the staple maize) and, on average, eight per cent of livestock have reportedly died, mostly poultry. Destruction of properties and of social infrastructure is also rampant. (OCHA, 24 Oct 2022)