HIGHLIGHTS

• Floodwaters have caused significant damage to the freshwater pipeline supplying Port Sudan, with sections forced above ground, ruptured, and damaging roads.

• According to authorities, approximately 5 million cubic meters of silt have been released downstream, severely impacting agriculture and water supply in surrounding areas.

• The dam collapse has resulted in loss of lives, 64 people missing, damage to 84 boreholes, destruction of 1,380 latrines, and the destruction of 20 villages and hamlets.

• Urgent needs include food supplies, shelter, and household items.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

On 25 August 2024, the Arba’at Dam, located approximately 38 km northwest of Port Sudan in Sudan's Red Sea State, suffered extensive damage following heavy rains, leading to a critical humanitarian situation in the affected areas. A team composed of UN agencies, local organizations, the Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS), ICRC and international NGOs conducted a preliminary assessment of the dam site along the western banks. This assessment was coordinated under the leadership of the Wali (Governor) of the Red Sea State. The findings from the mission indicate the severe impact of the floodwaters on vital infrastructure and communities. The mission could only visit the western bank of the dam, with reports indicating that some communities were still trapped on the eastern bank due to rising water levels. Lack of access to some of the affected areas is challenging the ability to gather accurate information on humanitarian needs. An assessment is needed to verify the full impact of the incident in inaccessible areas on the eastern bank.

According to an International Organization for Migration (IOM) early warning flash alert, between 60 to 100 families on the western bank of Arba’at dam have reportedly been affected by the heavy rains and flooding. These displaced families are currently taking refuge in improvised shelters within the same locality. However, these figures are yet to be verified.

Infrastructure and Environmental Damage The mission team observed extensive damage to the freshwater pipeline that supplies the City of Port Sudan. Previously well-placed underground sections of the pipeline have been forced above ground by the force of the floodwaters, leading to multiple ruptures. In some instances, the exposed pipelines now cross the road, necessitating detours for vehicles. Additionally, the road sustained significant damage, with some parts at risk of breaking away if urgent repairs are not undertaken.

It is important to note that the damage sustained by the dam will have a significant impact on the freshwater supply to Port Sudan in the months to come. Furthermore, it has been reported that approximately 5 million cubic meters of silt have been released from the dam downstream, severely affecting agriculture and water supply in the surrounding areas.

Humanitarian Impact The collapse of the dam has had a profound impact on local communities. Meetings with affected residents and community leaders have confirmed the tragic loss of lives, with 64 people still unaccounted for. Additionally, 84 boreholes have been damaged, and water points have lost generators and water pumps. The floodwaters also caused significant damage to sanitation facilities, destroying 1,380 latrines. Furthermore, reports indicate the complete destruction of 20 villages and hamlets. The team also identified a village on the eastern bank of the dam that has been entirely cut off due to flooding. Seven hamlets on the eastern bank have also been severely affected.

HUMANITARIAN OVERVIEW

In response to this disaster, the SRCS and the King Salman Centre have distributed food baskets to some of the affected populations. UNICEF has provided 200 cartons of water purification sachets to the Arba’at Development Organization and community leaders to ensure access to safe and clean water. The sachets can treat up to 480,000 liters of water, supporting approximately 640 families for ten days. Qatar Charity will distribute food rations at the most impacted areas. This is an addition to the response reported in Flash Update 01. OCHA is coordinating with partners to prepare for a rapid needs assessment in the most affected areas to inform a coordinated response. Urgent needs include food, shelter, and household items.

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For previous flash updates:

• SUDAN: Collapse of Arba’at Dam in Port Sudan, Red Sea State Flash Update No. 01 (26 August 2024)