Since May 2024, South Sudan has experienced significant flooding, caused by heavy rainfall and the bursting of the Nile River banks. The floods have affected more than 700,000 people, caused extensive damage to homes and devastated livestock and crops.Through this emergency appeal, the IFRC and its membership aim to address the urgent needs of 300,000 people through health, WASH, shelter and livelihoods interventions.
Extreme heat and prolonged heatwaves.Unprecedented floods and storms in every corner of the globe.Dry spells and storms that defy precedent.These are some of the ways climate change is having profound and sometimes devastating impacts on the health of people and communities around the world. As world leaders met at the COP29 climate summit being in Baku, Azerbaijan (11-22 November), IFRC is once again spotlighting what it sees every day through its emergency responses to sudden floods, extreme heatwaves, prolonged drought, economic crisis and hunger.Not only are people dying, losing homes and livelihoods, the climate crisis is having long-lasting impacts on people’s health and well-being. Extreme heatwaves, floods and storms are putting more and more people at risk of infectious diseases and malnutrition while reducing their access to care.“The impacts of the climate crisis are having a massive effect on people’s health,”IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagainsaid during the first day of the COP29 Conference. “So we must address the health impacts in a very comprehensive way.”Equally important is how and when those issues are addressed, he adds. Financing and investment on community health and preparedness must not only be increased, they must be directed to local communities where it is needed most.“The investment has to be at the right level and they must reach the right place,”Chapagain said. “At the moment, there is not enough investment and that investment is not reaching the community level. Less than ten percent of climate financing reaches the community level.“We need to be supporting community action on the ground, where people are living and facing the consequences every day.”That investment cannot wait until after disaster strikes. “How and when do you make that investment is also important,”he added. “If you make the investment early – with early warning systems oranticaptory actions -- it saves lives, livelihoods and dollars.”A burning issueCase in point is the growing threat of extreme heat. In recent years, global temperature records are being broken month after month, as climate change makes heatwaves – an already silent and deadly killer – more extreme. Every year, heat kills almost half a million people worldwide.Yet only 0.5 percent of multilateral climate adaptation finance goes to health measures that could drastically reduce that number. Such health measures could also improve people’s well-being and save money in the long run. By 2030, experts predict between USD two to four billion in additional health costs will be incurred if adaptation action is not taken now.Solutions involve a range of actions, from buildingclimate-resilient cities and health systems, to developing national heat-action plans andearly-warning early-action protocols. Other actions would ensure that social protection and health systems are responsive to climate-related shocks, while nature-based solutions could harness the natural protective power of ecosystems to shield communities from extreme heat or storm surges.“As climate impacts intensify, health systems must adapt to protect the most vulnerable,” said Petra Khoury, Director of IFRC’s Health and Care Department, speaking at a special COP29 event organized by the Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH), a programme hosted by WHO.“The IFRC network is on the frontlines, building climate-resilient health systems through community mobilization,” she said. "Solutions addressing the triple nexus of health, climate and migration should be community centered.“Bringing both host and displaced communities in the decision-making process and solutions is key to mitigating the impact of this nexus.”Among other things, the IFRC is working to scale up community level surveillance of climate–related diseases, deepen its existing community engagement efforts and broaden the scope of its work though a 'one health' approach.The ‘one health’ approach is a moreholistic way of improving human health by looking at the health of the environment in which people are living. For example, if livestock are rendered vulnerable to illness by heat, lack of food or water, that has a knock-on effect on human health. Up to 75 per cent of emerging infectious diseases that affect human beings start in animals.The IFRC is also heavily involved in street-by-street, house-by-house surveillance around diseases such as dengue, malaria and cholera, and many others, but climate change demands greater efforts in community engagement around disease tracking, prevention and response.To do all this, investments must be made at all levels – from national government budgets but also from multilateral development banks, multilateral climate funds, health financing institutions, bilateral development agencies, and private-sector actors.Putting this into action also means integrating health and heat action as part of a holistic approach to adaptation action in national climate plans, as well as enhancing coordination across government with local authorities, actors and communities.There have already been signs of progress. At COP28, the UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience strengthened adaptation action while 151 countries signed the first-ever COP Climate and Health Declaration. And there is mounting awareness about the urgency of addressing the health impacts of heatwaves. IFRC continued to sound the alarm hosting the first Global Summit on Extreme Heat with our annual Heat Action Day on 2 June.Recent severe hurricanes – sometimes referred to as ‘monster storms’ – along with a spate of severe flooding in large parts ofEurope,Western and Central Africa, theAmericas andSoutheast Asia and Oceana are also showcasing the urgent need for this kind of local investment.These floods are displacing millions of people, leaving them without access to safe water and sanitation. Often the communities hit hardest also already are coping with limited access to safe water, sanitation, nutrition, healthcare and education.Whether COP29 is ultimately judged a success will depend on whether commitments are made toward reversing these realities with real investments in health, preparedness and early warning that reach the local level. “These are the three key areas – health, investment and timing – if we can make progress on these areas at COP29, I would see this as a success,” Chapagain concluded.More information:IFRC’s approach to health and careIFRC’s approach to the climate crisisWorld Meteorological Organization Early Warnings for All InitiativeIFRC Early Warnings for All page
The floodwaters came, but they never left. In the region around Bulacan, a provincial area in Luzon, in northern Philippines, many communities have been literally knee-deep in water for more than three months plus now.Water that overflowed the banks of a river that surged in July, has remained, covering the landscape in a shallow pool ever since.“We got used to the flood waters stagnating in our homes,” saysMeldrid Liodel, a 53-year-old single mother. “We have tried not to get stressed about it. It is very difficult to stand up [due to the water], especially the cleaning, the cleaningof our homes [is difficult].”“I have six children and seven grandchildren.If you ask why we do not just move away, this is where we were born, we grew up, we made families, and we continue to fight for our lives.”Meldrid, as well as all her neighbours and communities, are learning to live their daily lives in shin-deep water. They get around in narrow canoes and many received boats from the local government to help with their daily commutes.The gardening they do for daily sustenance has also changed radically. They’ve started planting vegetables that grow well on water, and they began open air-drying fish that they catch from their rooftops. The fish and vegetables they use to earn a small income and feed their families.“These floods here started happening way back when Mount Pinatubo erupted many years ago,”Meldrid adds.“Before this, we had crops, we had a lot of rice fields, the farmers could farm, the fishermen could fish well.”Mount Pinatubo is just more than 90 kilometers from Bulacan, Central Luzon, where Meldrid’s community lives. Many years after the eruption, they realised that the entire local irrigation network, as well as the water channels and infrastructure in the surrounding regions, had been damaged by the volcano. Ever since, thousands of communities were suffering from continuous floods that would never subside.The floods are a result of a combination of back flooding, high-tide, and water brought in from storms and typhoons. This has occurred more frequently in the past decade.Just the beginningYet, this is not the full story. The Philippines sits one of the most disaster-prone zones in the world. Yearly, the country experiences multiple typhoons, floods, volcanic activity, and even earthquakes.By late November 2024, a total of six typhoons had pounded the Philippines back-to-back in various regions, dumping onto its land copious amounts of rushing water and causing widespread destruction. While international aid is vital for humanitarian purposes, it is not immediate, and affected people are in dire need of help the very hour the disaster hits.The storms only intensified the already chronic flooding problem. “Typhoon Carina was very strong, and it was sudden,”says Amelia Torres, who stands with her husband in their living room, which has been carpeted in to two feet of water since July 2024. “It suddenly intensified and didn’t go away and it didn't stop. The floods didn't subside.”All their belongings are hanging on the walls, dangling from the ceiling, or are perched on top of shelves and tables. Their bed and mattress are in the living room, about one foot above the water. “Sometimes, it's only dry for just 3 months of the year,” she adds.Rapid response fund to the rescueThis is where the IFRC DREF – Disaster Response Emergency Fund has been such a critical asset. This fund delivers financial support directly to local humanitarian actors—both before a crisis is expected to hit and after. These funds go directly to National Societies, and they are those that are very embedded in local communities.In the case of recent storms, the funds enabled the Philippine Red Cross to galvanize their response to quickly reach people while further funds are being procured globally. They were able to prepare evacuation centres,deploy evacuation teams, and quickly get hot meals, essential items, hygiene kits and more to the people.The IFRC-DREF mechanism was originally designed to respond to small- and medium-sized disasters, but it has evolved to include support for anticipatory action. By acting before disasters strike, IFRC aims for it to enable the saving of more lives and livelihoods and minimizing the devastating impacts.The Philippines have been a recipient of IFRC-DREF three times for the year 2024, and the Philippine Red Cross, along with the IFRC and partners, have been helping with relief, evacuation, hot meals, medical aid, and much more.That support is critical to people like Edgardo Sibbaluca, a construction worker in Rizal, another province in Central Luzon. His family of six experienced the full force of Super Typhoon Carina that hit in July this year.“We couldn’t save anything; we lost all our belongings,”he says. “We had to evacuate. We are now sleeping in the evacuation centre. Food is being brought to us, and that’s what we’re relying on. Fortunately, it occurred in the morning. If it had happened at night, many would have died.I felt weak; all I could see were piles of trash. I felt very weak. “But I’m thankful that at least our lives were spared. I’ll rebuild my house and fix my surroundings. I’ll plant again and go back to work. I’ll restore everything to how it was so I can get back on my feet.”“I feel like we have to be cautious now,”added Edgardo, who expressed gratitude for the support he received from the Red Cross. “We need to be prepared for disasters because we might have to evacuate again.I’m afraid of strong disasters that come suddenly.I want us to be strong and brave, to face challenges without fear and to be prepared.”By Rachel Punitha, IFRC Senior Communications Officer, Asia Pacific
Mali faces a severe humanitarian crisis as unprecedented flooding and ongoing armed conflict displace thousands, destroy homes, and devastate the agricultural economy. As the country grapples with this complex emergency, millions are left without basic necessities such as food and safe drinking water. Your donation helps us in making a meaningful difference for the 200,000 people supported by the Mali Red Cross in this response.
For several months, countries in West and Central Africa have been experiencing unprecedented flooding, which has destroyed homes, devastated crops, swept away livestock, and led to the loss of human lives.Red Cross volunteers are on the front lines, assisting impacted communities with support from IFRC and its partners, who are ramping up their emergency response.So far, the IFRC and its members National Societies have launched emergency appeals inCameroon,Chad,Niger,Nigeria andSouth Sudan to expand support to many more.However, the needs are immense, and additional resources are urgently needed to support vulnerable communities.The successive floods are a stark reminder of the effects of climate change in Africa. Beyond the immediate emergency response, it is imperative to establish climate resilience measures to protect vulnerable communities, notably throughanticipatory flood actions to strengthen disaster preparedness.Cameroon and Chad: 'We haven’t slept for ten days'In Cameroon, unprecedented floods since August 2024 have affected over 455,000 people. They have submerged 85,000 hectares of land and led to the loss of livelihoods for thousands of families.“We haven’t slept for ten days,” saysAsta Waziri, leader of a women’s cooperative of maize producers. “My shop and part of my home were destroyed, taking our stock of grains and many valuable belongings.”In response to this crisis, the Cameroon Red Cross immediately deployed volunteer teams to rescue affected people and organize evacuations to non-flooded areas.With support of emergency allocations from the IFRC’sDisaster Relief Emergency Fund (IFRC-DREF), the Cameroon Red Cross has provided cash assistance to over 4,800 people, enabling them to meet urgent needs for food, clothing, and temporary shelter.The National society has also strengthened its health and sanitation efforts, educating communities on practices to prevent waterborne diseases like cholera and distributing hygiene and sanitation kits.“With the cash assistance from the Red Cross, I plan to send two or three children back to school and build at least one room with durable material,” says Aska. “At the moment we are all squeezed into one hut."Most importantly, she says, she will buy cereals that the can store and feed her family over time.In Chad, more than 1.9 million people are affected, and the Chadian Red Cross is mobilized to provide shelter, food, and essential items. However, infrastructure is inadequate to meet the needs: 217,779 homes have been destroyed, 432,203 hectares of arable land ravaged, and over 72,000 livestock lost.Nigeria: 'My family and I ran for our lives'In Nigeria, floods reached critical levels between July and September 2024. Thirty-three of the 36 states were affected, primarily due to heavy rains and the collapse of the Alau Dam in Borno State.Over three million people have been impacted, resulting in 311 deaths, more than 3,000 injuries, and the displacement of 390,000 individuals.“We all had to flee. My family and I ran for our lives. It was the most horrible moment of my life,” recounts Hadjara Habu, a mother of five whose home was destroyed by the floodwaters.The flooding also claimed more than 649 hectares of farmland, jeopardizing food security in the months ahead. Nigerian Red Cross volunteers, supported by IFRC-DREF, are providing shelter, food, drinking water, and hygiene items.Red Cross Volunteers gave people like Hajara cash vouchers to help them get through the coming days.“It is not a lot of money, but it will help us in many ways. We lost all our food items to the floods; this will help me and my family to buy food.”However, the growing number of people affected requires additional resources.Niger: A crisis worsened by climate changeIn Niger, more than 1.3 millionpeople have been affected by floods across the country’s eight regions. Official figures indicate the destruction of over 146,000 homes, loss of lives, and the devastation of over 22,000 hectares of crops.These increasingly frequent extreme weather events underscore the urgent need to strengthen infrastructure, early warning systems, and adopt climate adaptation strategies to reduce future disaster risks.In response, the Red Cross of Niger is deploying a comprehensive intervention that includes emergency assistance, health services, prevention, and awareness-raising about climate risks. The Red Cross is also providing shelter kits, distributing small cash grants, implementing prevention measures against waterborne diseases to help mitigate both short- and long-term impacts.Read more about IFRC’s six active flood related emergency appeals in Africa:CameroonChadEthiopiaNigeriaNigerSouth SudanRead more about unprecedented 2024 flooding in other regions:Season of floods: Youth in Fiji help their communities prevent the damage caused by climate changeBehind the scenes: ‘The new normal’ means the job of getting ready for disaster never endsSeason of the floods: ‘It was terrifying,’ but Red Crescent volunteers nonetheless risked all to save lives and help people recover
“Strange,” Seru says tersely.“The weather that we are supposed to be experiencing at this time of the year should be dry and sunny instead it is wet and cold.”Seru Ramakita, 61, was born and raised in the village of Navuevu – a two-hour drive from Suva, the capital city of Fiji.“As a result of the continuous rain, we are now experiencing flooding. This is the first time in 50 years that the village has experienced flooding.”Home to over 300 hundred people, Navuevu village is grappling with one of the many challenges of life with climate change.As Seru looks out over the water, the midday sun is blanketed by dark clouds as a slight ray of sunshines peeks through a cleft in the clouds. The rustle of the coconut leaves brings back memories, some familiar, some new.“Even during past cyclones, we did not experience flooding,” he says. “The flooding has affected our root crops.”The crops ended up getting submerged in water hence affected their growth. “Now we have no choice but to move our farm to higher ground”, Seru says“As a result of the saltwater inundation due to the flooding, our root crops such as cassava are not able to grow properly, and all our hard work has gone to waste.”In this series, we explore how communities are working to reduce the risks of weather-related crises even even as they are busy helping people recover from the last devastating disaster.Robin Kaiwalu, 33, is a Fiji Red Cross youth volunteer who also resides in Navuevu village, has been affected by the recent floods.“The flooding reached up to my knee and my whole plantation was under water.”“All my crops are damaged including plantain, cassava, taro. Not only do we depend on this for food, but we also sell it as a source of income."Before joining the Y-Adapt program, Robin was an unemployed youth who focused on his family and hobbies like rugby. When he joined the Y-Adapt program, he realized there was a lot to learn through the Fiji Red Cross programs, which motivated him to become a volunteer. He has been volunteering for five months now.WHAT IS Y-ADAPTY-Adapt is a youth-based training program designed to educate, engage and inspire young people to take action and become climate change leaders in their communities. It also builds climate resilience through increased technical understanding and planning skills to take climate action.Over 60 youths have participated in the Y-Adapt program. About 70 per cent of them were unemployed or had dropped out of school. However, some are now pursuing vocational studies, while others have found employment in hotels or are seeking jobs.Through collective action and collaboration, the youth can leverage their diverse ideas, skills, and perspectives to tackle climate change challenges effectively.Fiji Red Cross Society, with support from Japanese Red Cross and IFRC, has been able to train the youth volunteers in Navuevu and equip them with knowledge, skills and resources to address the issue of flooding in the village.In the village, any activity must be approved at a village meeting before proceeding. The youths consulted the village headman to help present their action plan at the meeting, where it was subsequently approved.To ensure active participation, the youths organized a garbage drive along their coastal area and within the village. The drive saw a good turnout, including stakeholders like hotels, the police, the Provincial Council, Disability Associations, and villagers, resulting in the collection of over 150 kg of rubbish.Since most youths were unemployed and needed bus fare and funding for necessary documentation, the village collectively agreed to cover these expenses to support the youth group's initiatives.The village was pleased to see the youths working together to achieve their goals.“After consultations with the village head and the elders, we decided that we came to the conclusion that we needed to construct rubbish bins to help with proper disposal of rubbish,” says Robin.Buying a large bin to accommodate the village's population is very expensive for the youths and involves a lengthy process through the Town Council and Provincial Office before it can be installed in the village. The youths were encouraged to keep their activities low-cost, achievable, and within a set timeframe, so they decided to construct their own bin.“This way the rubbish would not block the drains and the next time it rains; the water will not overflow into the village,” says Robin.“We are very grateful and appreciative to Fiji Red Cross for implementing this program in our village,” says Seru.The tremendous support of the community members, particularly the families of the youth participants, has been instrumental in driving the success of the Y Adapt program in Navuevu.The encouragement and backing received from within the village highlight the value placed on youth-led initiatives that aim to address local environmental challenges and contribute to community well-being.“It is very heartening to see our youths, the future leaders of tomorrow, taking the lead in helping their very own communities with such initiatives," says Seru.“The Y-Adapt Program stands as a beacon of hope and progress in the fight against climate change, demonstrating the power of youth empowerment and collective action in creating sustainable and resilient communities,” says Robin.“For now, we will continue to plant our crops on higher grounds and another goal is to set up an evacuation centre for the village so that when it floods the next time, families are able to seek shelter at this centre.”Text bySoneel Ram (IFRC) with editing by Rachel Punitha (IFRC) | Photos: Kurt Petersen (Petersen Fotography) and Fiji Red Cross Society.
Since early August 2024, torrential rains have severely affected the Far North, West, North West and South West regions of Cameroon, affecting more than 360,000 people and resulting in multiple deaths, loss of livelihoods, homes, infrastructure, educational facilities, agricultural and environmental damage, as well as livestock losses. This appeal will help the Cameroon Red Cross make a meaningful difference for 99,100 people impacted by these devastating floods.
Central Europe is experiencing its biggest floods in decades. But that is only the latest round ofclimate-related phenomena — from heat and cold waves, to storms, wildfires and landslides — that have pushed many communities to the breaking point.As some worry this is becoming ‘the new normal’, those whose job it is to protect people from these emergencies say preparing for multiple, overlapping crisis will become more important than ever.“As Europe is warming much faster than the rest of the world, floods are occurring more frequently and with more unpredictability,”says Andreas von Weissenberg, the IFRC’s Head of Health, Disasters, Climate and Crises in Europe. “Scaling up climate adaptation action and strengthening preparedness is a must.”But what does that mean in a region already dealing with an international conflict, mass migration, an increase in communicable diseases, continuedrisk of earthquakes,as well as human-induced disasters such as industrial and transportation accidents?For Red Cross and RedCrescent National Societies, it means continuing to play a key role in helping people and communities prepare for future crisis, even while responding to ongoing emergencies.“Europe and Central Asia is a large and complex region that is facing an unprecedented escalation in several types of hazards, in addition to the risk of recurrent and severe flooding,” saysMegan Krolik, IFRC’s National Society Preparedness Coordinator for Europe.Even as communities struggle to recover from floods, wildfires or earthquakes, they must also be thinking about — and getting ready for — whatever comes next. As part of these affected communities, Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies must address these challenges head on.“It is more important than ever to ensure that we have the necessary skills, resources, and capacities to effectively manage domestic disaster responses, as well as the larger, cross-border humanitarian crises, both of which are becoming more and more frequent,” Krolik says.‘Sustainable preparedness’National Societies impacted by the Ukraine conflict have seen first-hand the need to scale up their own institutional preparedness.“In the past year of the emergency response operation in Ukraine and the impacted countries, the operational preparedness of National Societies has become a clear priority,”says Krolik, adding that the lessons learned from this experience are being turned into operational analyses that enable National Societies to make a high level of preparedness sustainable over the long term.In addition, operational reviews required as part of IFRC’s funding mechanisms help the IFRC and National Societies analyze hazards and challenges, as well as the capacity of each National Society, and then develop the best possible preparedness strategies.The IFRC has also been working with National Societies on a range of preparedness efforts across Europe and Central Asia:• The creation of 11 new Emergency Operation Centres to help coordinate regional responses.• The launch of a new platform, called X-Stock, by five National Societies in southeastern Europe, for managing warehouse space and relief supplies in real time.• The participations of more National Societies in regional and national emergency simulations.• Scaling up of disaster response team training on many aspects of emergency response.The Slovak Red Cross is one of the National Societies going through this preparedness transformation.“Over the past two and a half years, we have witnessed an influx of displaced people from Ukraine,” saysKatarína Rakická, Operations Manager at the Slovak Red Cross (SRC). “The SRC has been engaged in the provision of support and services for the displaced population that was transiting through the country, as well as for those who have decided to stay and settle down.” Due to the complex situation, there is a renewed commitment to National Society strengthening.“We have prioritized disaster preparedness and have developed a work plan to strengthen our response capacity, with a particular emphasis on migration,” Katarína states.The Slovak Red Cross is not the only National Society in the region putting its response capacity to the test.The Lithuanian Red Cross has a highly skilled staff and a willingness to further develop its disaster management team. But prior to the Ukraine conflict, it had never been involved in such a large-scale emergency response.“The arrival of migrants and refugees from Ukraine has provided the Lithuanian Red Cross with significant experience in handling emergencies," notes Eray Atay, IFRC’s Senior Preparedness Officer in Europe. "This situation has helped them develop their operations, expand their teams, and enhance their response capacities.”A shared concernNow the Lithuanian Red Cross, along with other European National Societies, is going even further by developing contingency planning for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) events. This is particularly relevant due to the proximity of a nuclear power plant to the Lithuanian border.“This concern is shared by other National Societies in the Baltic region and in Central Europe,” Eray says. “This is due to the presence of numerous nuclear and chemical plants, and the potential for accidents or conflict-related incidents.”CBRN preparedness is a key topic in the Preparedness for Effective Response (PER) workshops which the IFRC is rolling out across the region.“Developing contingency plans tailored to each National Society's mandate and capacities is crucial,”Eray adds.“These plans help National Societies in the region to define their roles and responsibilities, ensuring they can effectively respond to various disaster scenarios that may impact their countries.” Sharing regional stockpilesThe COVID-19 pandemic also highlighted the need for regional preparedness, and in particular, cross-border stockpiling and transportation strategies, according to Nebojsa Medojevic, IFRC Disaster and Crisis Preparedness Delegate in Europe.This is one reason that five National Societies in the southeast European region created the X-Stock Platform for managing warehouse space on a regional basis.This helps them enhance cross-border emergency management through shared real-time management of emergency stock.“The X-STOCK platform was created as a virtual warehouse to improve regional preparedness, enabling real-time stock management and facilitating emergency relief”, he says.The fact that 11 European National Societies have establishedEmergency Operations Centers (EOCs) will also helpNational Societies strengthen crisis management, internal communication and data analysis, he adds.“EOCs have played a crucial role in monitoring and responding to emergencies,”according to Nebojsa. “Many National Societies have extended the concept to their field branches, based on exposure and vulnerability to potential future disasters.”
As conflict in the Middle East escalates, Lebanon has been at the top of the news as the latest humanitarian crisis to unfold in an already complex region. The Lebanese Red Cross has been at the forefront of emergency response.For those whose job is to save lives during crisis, however, it’s also critical to keep an eye on what might be coming next. With winter coming, that means that there may be additional layers of suffering to address as temperatures drop and people — some displaced by the escalation in hostilities— face cold snaps and even snowstorms.This is why proactive approaches such as “anticipatory action” — beginning with response efforts based on forecasts, before weather events unfold — can be so critical. It not only helps to save lives, but it also helps emergency responders efficiently allocate resources among a range of dire humanitarian needs.It begins with monitoring the warning signs, such as weather forecasts or signs of disease outbreaks, to identify when a crisis might occur.Once the signs are detected, National Societies create detailed plans that outline what actions to take when the crisis does occur.“In Lebanon, anticipatory action has proven effective, especially during winter storms,” saysKassem Chaalan, Disaster Risk Reduction Director at the Lebanese Red Cross. “Ahead of a severe winter season with expected heavy snowfall in early 2024, the Lebanese Red Cross and partners took proactive measures.”“We used weather forecasts to alert communities allowing for early warnings to be issued to vulnerable communities,”he adds. “Moreover, we sent information and guidance to local communities on how to prepare for the storm, including advice on safeguarding their homes and ensuring personal safety.”This early action significantly reduced the negative impact of winter storms, saving lives and minimizing economic losses. The Lebanese Red Cross employed a similar approach during times of extreme heat as well.“This was also done during the hot summer season; actionable messages were disseminated during heat waves events in urban settings,”Chaalan says.Acting before floods occur in YemenIn Yemen, floods have been a regular occurrence during the past few years, devastating lives and livelihoods, and compounding an already dire situation.To reduce flood risks and protect lives, the Yemen Red Crescent Society is piloting an anticipatory action programme in Sana’a and Hadramout governorates, in coordination with meteorological and civil defence authorities, as well as relevant humanitarian organizations at both national and regional levels.The programme involves aSimplified Early Action Protocol (SEAP), which is the first to be developed in the IFRC’s Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. In Yemen, SEAP is activated when heavy rainfall is forecast. The protocol includes simplified plans that allow the Yemen Red Crescent Society to act immediately and effectivelybefore floods occur, therefore preparing communities for worst-case scenarios.Anticipatory Action across the Middle East and North AfricaLebanon and Yemen are two of many countries in the MENA region that have unique vulnerabilities and challenges; these countries face a variety of crises, including natural disasters, climate change effects like wildfires, heatwaves and droughts, and ongoing geopolitical conflicts.These factors contribute to high levels of humanitarian needs, with many communities experiencing displacement and instability. This is where Anticipatory Action proves useful.For that reason, National Societies in the MENA region came together recently in Dubai during what was called the 1st MENA Dialogue Platform to establish a roadmap for Anticipatory Action in the region.“The MENA Dialogue Platform has been influential in enhancing our networking and collaboration,”adds Chaalan. “It allowed us at the Lebanese Red Cross to increase valuable connections with other humanitarian organizations, government agencies, and international partners, fostering essential collaborative efforts and information exchange for more effective crisis responses.“We gained crucial insights into best practices and innovative approaches from across the MENA region. Also, we advocated for and created linkages between different communities of practice, enhancing complementarity and increasing our collective impact. Given the rising frequency of hazards, this platform has underscored the importance of continuous learnings"By addressing vulnerabilities in advance, anticipatory action enhances the overall safety and well-being of communities, making it an essential strategy for sustainable development and disaster risk reduction.Learn more about anticipatory action in the IFRC network:Early warning, early actionDisaster and Crisis PreparednessAnticipatory Pillar of the IFRC's Disaster Response Emergency Fund
Devipur village in Noakhali, an expansive district in the southern Delta region of Bangladesh, was one of the worst-hit areas when floods overwhelmed the area in late August. The entire village disappeared underwater, and thousands faced the terrifying reality of drowning.The Red Crescent unit of Noakhali immediately sprang into action."Once we activated the hotline, the calls never stopped. We got 10-12 calls a minute, mostly for rescue," shared Nusrat Jahan Nishi, a youth volunteer. Her team worked tirelessly, rescuing hundreds and bringing them to safety at the Devipur Primary School, which had been turned into a shelter.Being in the shelter was far from comfortable. Families, from the elderly to small children, were packed tightly together, often sleeping on school benches and cooking in unsafe conditions.Water everwhere, nothing to drinkWith no clean water or toilets, it became a struggle to stay healthy. Many families couldn't find enough food, especially for children and the elderly, and waste began to pile up, creating an unsafe environment.To ease their suffering, Red Crescent volunteers distributed dry and cooked food along with clean drinking water. Medical teams were also sent to provide care and reduce the growing health risks."Actually, people with sons or husbands can manage food more easily here," Tahera explained, highlighting the challenges women face in living and obtaining food in the shelter.It all began on 20 August 2024, following torrential rains in India. Within 24 hours, low-lying areas of the districts of Feni, Noakhali, Cumilla, and Lakshmipur in eastern and southeastern Bangladesh were underwater.By the next day, 90 per cent of Feni and Noakhali were submerged and the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society in Noakhali quickly set up a control room and hotline to organize rescue efforts.Initially, the plan was to rescue flood-affected volunteers and their families, but the situation was much worse than expected. Volunteers and former youth members from across the district joined in, determined to help.“Making decisions in those first hours was the hardest part,” recalls Farhana Haider Meem, the Youth Chief of the Noakhali Unit. “We had no idea how to manage such a massive emergency so quickly.”Zobaer Hosen, one of the first youth members on the Noakhali rescue team, said they faced enormous challenges. "We didn’t have enough equipment, boats, or anything really. I went three or four nights without sleep,” Zobaer said. ”We stayed at the unit office, but every time I dozed off, I woke up thinking the phone was ringing."Despite the sleepless nights and lack of resources, Zobaer and his team didn’t stop.‘It was terrifying’The Feni unit had an even tougher time. They knew that so many families were trapped in dangerous flood waters, and they didn't have proper rescue equipment. They stepped out to help despite that fact, but unfortunately, they severely underestimated the waters and found themselves trapped as well.For 36 hours, they were stuck without food or water. Finally, as the waters receded slightly, they swam to safety using bamboo poles. Thankfully, all 23 volunteers are safe and sound.“We spent the whole day on the roof of a one-story house, using our helmets to catch water to drink. It was terrifying,” said Labib, a Red Crescent Youth in the Feni unit. “After enduring that day, we finally made it back to the nearby market, where I found my father, who had been so worried about me.”Unexpected magnitudeThe volunteers at Feni encountered two major challenges. First, there was not much coordination between all rescue organisations in this particular area, as everyone here had not experienced flooding of this scale. Another was a lack of proper rescue equipment. The Feni unit was the first group of rescuers to arrive to help in the worst-hit areas. Unfortunately, there no rescue boats available yet.Again, because none of the affected districts had experienced flooding of this scale in decades, there was no pre-stocked equipment or boats for an immediate disaster response.Many volunteers of affected districts emphasised that due to this flooding, these challenges ought now to be addressed so that they can be better prepared for future disasters.Flooding also hit people in the remote hills of Khagrachari, far from the low-lying areas where the floods were centered — people like Natun Kumar Chakma, a farmer who was also hit with the devastating impacts from the floods."My fields are still underwater, and all the crops are lost," he said.Red Crescent volunteers travelled to these remote hilly areas, where some of the region's ethnic minorities live, to provide emergency food supplies and support.Helping handsOnce the floodwaters receded, Bangladesh Red Crescent teams travelled with a National Disaster Response Team member to the submerged village of Suborno Char, Noakhali, where they disinfected tubewells to provide safe drinking water to the community.One of the tubewells they disinfected belonged to Halima. She and her three children stayed in their flooded home while the water raged outside.“I have no helping hand—no parents, no siblings—so I thought it was better to stay than go to the shelter,” she explained. Her husband, a daily labourer, was out of work because of the flood. For almost a week, the family survived on dry food. Thanks to the Red Crescent, they now have clean water, and Halima’s family will receive further support to rebuild their lives.The Bangladesh Red Crescent deployed medical teams from Holy Family Hospital (a BDRCS hospital) to Feni that included doctors, paramedics, and emergency supplies.“People came in with all sorts of health problems—rashes, infections, colds, and diarrhea,” explained Fatema Akter, a member of the Feni Red Crescent Youth Team. These medical teams were crucial in preventing the spread of disease in the aftermath of the disaster.The floods didn’t just affect physical health. The trauma of losing homes, livelihoods, and security took a mental toll as well. Volunteers, trained in providing psychological first aid, listened to and comforted people as they navigated through their fear and uncertainty.Adrita Tabassum Ome, an Red Cross Youth volunteer from Feni, worked for five days offering mental health support. "I focused on listening to women, elderly ladies, and children, while my male teammate supported the men,” she said. These volunteers played a crucial role in helping people manage their stress and anxiety during the disaster.More than 14 million people have been affected by flooding events hitting Bangladesh across the northern, northeastern, and southeastern regions since June, displacing millions and causing widespread damage. In September, the IFRC launched an emergency appeal seeking 7.5 million Swiss Francs to support Bangladesh Red Crescent recovery efforts.As operations continue, the Red Crescent is targeting and prioritizing the most affected communities, aiming to reach 400,000 people with support for safe shelter, food security, livelihood recovery, health services, as well as water, sanitation and hygiene support.This story was reported and written by Nahidul Islam and Al-Shahriar Rupam and edited by Rachel Punitha, IFRC senior communications officer. Photos by Al-Shahriar Rupam and Mustakim Billah Muhit.See more compelling photos and stories about the flooding in Feni and Noakhali.See the IFRC's Emergency Appeal for donations to help recovery in Bangladesh.
Strong winds and heavy rainfall from Typhoon Yagi triggered severe flooding and landslides across Myanmar, affecting over 60 townships in nine states and regions, with an estimated 631,000 people affected, 320,000 displaced and close to 200 reported fatalities.This Emergency Appeal aims to provide the resources needed so the Myanmar Red Cross Society can provide immediate relief and early recovery assistance to the most severely affected households (35,000 people) in all the nine affected areas.
Kathmandu/ Kuala Lumpur/ Geneva - 2 October 2024The Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) are working on mobilising an emergency fund of over 520,000 Swiss francs to further support the ongoing efforts for floods in Nepal, targeting 20,000 people. In its immediate response, over 200 Nepal Red Cross staff and volunteers have worked closely with the authorities in evacuations and search and rescue in the field and distribution of essential supplies. The Red Cross is also involved in clearing roads and restoring access, especially in high-elevation areas where landslides continue to pose significant challenges. So far, the Red Cross has distributed emergency relief items from its prepositioned stocks to nearly 5,000 people.Azmat Ulla, the Head of the IFRC delegation to Nepal, expressed the determination of the Red Cross to make all possible resources available for the communities affected by the worst monsoon rains for more than half a century. They’ve caused the loss of over 200 lives and massive destruction to infrastructure, property damage, industries, crops and livelihoods.“With the additional funds, we aim to focus on providing shelter, water, and sanitation as well as cash to help communities recover as soon as possible, especially those in the most affected areas from Kathmandu to the most affected areas in the adjacent south,” he said, adding that this is of paramount importance as the winter season is approaching.Many of the impacted households are forced to live in open areas due to the damage to their houses. Urgently, the Red Cross is working on transitional shelter solutions for the most vulnerable households including people with disability, senior citizens, pregnant and maternal women and children, and people with low economic status. To a certain extent, relief efforts in general have been hampered as not all affected areas are accessible due to damaged roads and bridges, inundation and disruption in electricity and telecommunications. Many villages are still cut off from the rest of the country owing to impassable roads and broken bridges. In Kathmandu alone, over 3,600 people have been rescued, and many have lost not just their homes but their entire livelihoods. Access to essential resources, such as fresh water is a challenge. And even when the floodwaters recede, there is a risk of a major outbreak of dengue.Witnessing first-hand the scale of the disaster in the Kathmandu Valley, Mr. Ulla highlighted the key to the swift response from the Nepal Red Cross which has trained volunteers and prepositioned stocks. Looking forward, more efforts must be put into further scaling up the preparedness and empowerment of communities including access to relief items as Nepal faces the increasing threat of climate change which has intensified disasters such as this one.An allocation of CHF 520,718 has been made from the IFRC's Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) to help with the response to the floods.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Kuala Lumpur: Lili Chin: +60162340872In Geneva: Andrew Thomas: +41763676587
Nairobi/Geneva, 19 September 2024 – Heavy rains over the last few weeks have triggered massive flooding and devastation in West and Central Africa, with hundreds of thousands of people displaced from their destroyed homes in areas already suffering from food insecurity and conflict.Human-induced climate change “is likely to have significantly worsened the situation”, according to scientists at the Red Cross Climate Centre.The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has launched emergency appeals in Chad, Niger, and Nigeria to respond to the catastrophic flooding.Mohammed Mukhier, IFRC Regional Director for Africa says:“Torrential rains have triggered destructive floods that have left millions in dire need of assistance. The floods are testament to climate crisis damage in Africa and how it's affecting vulnerable communities. We need an urgent response now and in the coming weeks with more flooding expected.”In Chad, where an estimated 1.5 million people have been affected, initial assessments point to the destruction of over 164,000 homes, with all 23 provinces of the country involved, and Tandjile, Mayo-Kebbi Est, Logone and Lac among the most afflicted provinces. Over 259,000 hectares of croplands have been wiped out, heightening the risk of food shortages in a country already grappling with chronic food insecurity. With the continuing rise of floodwaters, the humanitarian situation in Chad could deteriorate further.The country has faced increasingly severe floods in recent years, part of a broader pattern of worsening weather in the Sahel due to climate change. Once expected every 10 years, torrential rains now occur every 2 to 5 years. Khalal Sennousi Ahmat, President of the Chad Red Cross, says:“The scenes following the floods in Chad are heartbreaking. Entire villages have been left under water and families have lost everything. The numbers of people affected are expected to rise as the rains continue. Our team’s focus now is to provide shelter, food and medical care, but we need more resources given the scale of the devastation.”A growing concern is the stagnant water that exacerbates unsanitary conditions and risks outbreaks of waterborne disease. Safe drinking water, health services, and sanitation facilities are desperately needed to prevent the spread of deadly diseases such as cholera and malaria.Chad is not alone in suffering the extreme effects of the climate crisis, with many other West and Central African countries experiencing severe weather. Since July, South Sudan has been battling heavy floods, with over 735,000 people affected across 38 counties. Worst-hit areas include Northern Bahr el Ghazal, Jonglei, and Unity, where homes, schools, and health facilities have been destroyed, displacing thousands. Projections indicate that up to 3.3 million people could be affected by October, making it the worst floods in South Sudan's history.Similarly, Nigeria has experienced severe flooding following continuous heavy rainfall, affecting over 1 million people across 18 states, including Borno, Adamawa, and Bayelsa. The Nigeria Red Cross is preparing life-saving assistance for 200,000 people, but this number is expected to double as the floods worsen.In Niger, the worst flooding in a decade has affected 842,000 people across all eight regions. The Niger Red Cross is providing a holistic response, including sanitation facilities, cash grants, climate adaptation strategies, and protection for vulnerable communities.In all the affected countries, Red Cross and Red Crescent teams are providing emergency shelter, food, clean water, sanitation facilities, mosquito nets and cash grants, but with many roads becoming inaccessible due to flooding, the response is a race against time.In addition to immediate relief, the IFRC is working with Red Cross teams in Chad, South Sudan, Niger and Nigeria on long-term resilience programmes and climate adaptation strategies. Efforts will focus on rebuilding homes with climate-resilient infrastructure, improving sanitation, and restoring agricultural capacity to safeguard food security and protect vulnerable communities.Dr Ben Adinoyi, IFRC Head of Delegation, Country Cluster Delegation for the Central African Republic and Chad: “These are not just one-time events. What we are witnessing is a growing, recurrent tragedy. This cycle of extreme weather is becoming more frequent due to the climate crisis. Beyond saving lives during this crisis, Red Cross is matching long-term climate resilience strategies to protect vulnerable families from climate shocks.”The IFRC has launched an emergency appeal for CHF 8 million to assist over 385,000 of the most vulnerable people across seven severely impacted provinces in Chad. In addition, the IFRC is initiating emergency appeals for Niger (CHF 8 million), and Nigeria (CHF 10 million) to support both immediate relief and long-term operational work. South Sudan is also scaling up their life-saving relief activities.As part of its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) for flood response, the IFRC has already contributed CHF 231,293 to Nigeria, CHF 1 million to Chad, CHF 309,523 to Niger, and CHF 943,271 to Sudan.For more information or to request an interview, contact: [email protected] In Nairobi: Susan Nzisa Mbalu: +254 733 827 654In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67 Hannah Copeland: +44 7535316633
Nigeria is currently facing devastating floods that have impacted multiple states. The floods have washed away entire villages and settlements, especially in rural and peri-urban areas where houses were mostly made of mud, bamboo, and other materials unable to withstand the flooding. The scale of the destruction is unprecedented, further exacerbating an already challenging economic situation in the country. Through this emergency appeal, the IFRC and its membership aim to address the urgent needs of 400,000 people through health, shelter, multi-purpose cash interventions, and support with water, sanitation and hygiene.
Heavy and persistent rainfall since July have claimed the lives of more than 300 people, destroyed more than 95 thousand homes and wiped out more than thousands of hectares of crops and livestock. The country's precarious socio-economic conditions exacerbate the vulnerability of its population too, particularly those living in refugee camps, peripheral neighbourhoods, flood-prone areas and densely populated urban zones. Through this emergency appeal, the IFRC and its membership aim to address the urgent needs of 250,000 people in five regions through health, water, sanitation, hygiene, shelter and food-security interventions.
Weeks of severe rains in Chad have hit all 23 provinces leaving at least 340 people dead and 1.5 million in urgent need of food, healthcare, shelter, protection and water sanitation and hygiene services. Forecasts predict continued heavy rains and flooding across much of West and Central Africa in September, with a high concentration of rainfall in Chad. Contribute to this appeal and make a meaningful difference for the 389,000 people supported by the Red Cross of Chad in this response.
Bangkok/Yangon/Kuala Lumpur 17 September 2024 – Super Typhoon Yagi, one of the strongest typhoons to hit Southeast Asia in decades, has left a trail of destruction in multiple countries, with severe flooding, landslides, and widespread infrastructural damage. The typhoon affected the Philippines, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar, triggering both immediate humanitarian responses and long-term recovery efforts. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), in collaboration with local Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, is mobilising resources to assist those in need.Regional impact of Typhoon YagiSuper Typhoon Yagi initially made landfall in the Philippines on 2 September. Locally known as Typhoon Enteng, it resulted in landslides and flooding, killing 21 people in its wake, prompting school and office closures and disrupting power and telecommunication services.Three days later, it traversed through southern China before landing in Vietnam on 7 September. Typhoon Yagi caused massive destruction in Vietnam’s Quang Ninh province and Hai Phong city. With continuous heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides affecting 26 provinces, including the capital city of Hanoi, the typhoon left 344 people reported dead or missing. Over 235,000 homes were damaged, and the economic impact is so far estimated at USD 1.6 billion.The Vietnam Red Cross Society (VNRC) has been on the front lines, distributing emergency relief items, food, and cash assistance. The IFRC is launching a CHF 4 million emergency appeal to aid recovery efforts in the worst-affected areas, focusing on shelter restoration, health services, and livelihood recovery.Myanmar also faced unprecedented flooding starting on September 8, as the remnants of Typhoon Yagi triggered heavy rains, displacing over 320,000 people and causing 113 reported deaths across nine regions. The Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) has been actively conducting search and rescue operations, providing first aid, and distributing vital supplies such as food, water, blankets, and hygiene items. The IFRC, in collaboration with MRCS, has launched another emergency appeal, aiming to raise 2.5 million CHF to assist 25,000 people over the next 12 months.While the direct impact of Typhoon Yagi was less severe in the Philippines, and later on in Laos, both countries experienced significant flooding and infrastructural damage. The local Red Cross Societies responded to urgent needs, and both countries are working to mitigate further risks posed by prolonged flooding and landslides.Flooding in Southeast Asia: A Regional CrisisSuper Typhoon Yagi’s impact has caused extensive flooding across Southeast Asia, affecting millions of people. Prolonged rainfall, soil saturation, and the sheer magnitude of the typhoon have exacerbated the already vulnerable situations in many communities. Local Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies across the region are responding to immediate needs, while the IFRC is coordinating support for large-scale recovery operations, including emergency shelter, healthcare, and psychosocial support.With emergency appeals being launched in Vietnam and Myanmar, the IFRC is calling for international solidarity to ensure a rapid and effective response to help affected communities rebuild their lives. The IFRC’s Regional Director for Asia Pacific, Alexander Matheou, says:"This year alone, the Asia Pacific region has faced an unrelenting series of climate-related disasters. The devastation caused by Super Typhoon Yagi is just the latest example of the compounding effects of the climate crisis on people who are already in vulnerable situations. From typhoons, floods, and heatwaves to droughts, these crises hit one after another, leaving little room for recovery.“The IFRC and our Red Cross and Red Crescent partners remain committed to providing life-saving assistance and long-term support. As we face this escalating climate emergency, our work is more critical than ever in helping communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from these frequent and severe disasters."The IFRC is working closely with national authorities and humanitarian partners in the region to coordinate efforts and scale up operations. The immediate focus is on providing life-saving assistance, restoring critical infrastructure, and supporting long-term recovery. Cash assistance, emergency shelters, and health services are among the priority needs as floodwaters continue to rise, threatening food security, sanitation, and public health.For more information or to request an interview, please contact [email protected] Media Inquiries:In Bangkok: Kovit Pholsena | +66 (0) 81 837 8876 In Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances | +60 19 271 3641In Geneva: Hannah Copeland | +44 7535316633Visuals: Additional photos and video available here: Viet Nam , Myanmar
Budapest/Geneva, 16 September 2024 – Central Europe is experiencing its biggest floods in decades, which may soon become the new normal, warns the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).Thousands of Red Cross volunteers in Austria, Czech Republic, Moldova, Poland and Romania are working around the clock to respond to the needs of affected people. In the last few days, torrential rain from Storm Boris has caused massive flooding in these countries, leading to flooded homes, power outages, transport disruption and damaged infrastructure.“As Europe is warming much faster than the rest of the world, we are facing a possible future where such floods are not called historic, but frequent or even annual. We must brace ourselves to adapt to this new reality,” says Andreas von Weissenberg, the IFRC’s Head of Health, Disasters, Climate & Crises in Europe.Among the worst affected areas is Lower Austria, where 1,750 people had to leave their homes and go to temporary shelters. Many of them lived through a similar crisis during the floods of 2002 and are now in fear of losing everything once again.More than 2,500 Austrian Red Cross volunteers and staff are responding, assisting with evacuations, setting up temporary shelters and caring for displaced people.In eastern Romania, the floods have already claimed the lives of six people. In the hardest-hit counties of Galati and Vaslui, more than 5,000 homes have been flooded and hundreds of people have been evacuated.The Romanian Red Cross has distributed 20 tonnes of food and drinking water and launched an appeal for donations to support the affected people.Other countries in the region including Germany, Hungary and Slovakia remain on high alert, with Red Cross teams coordinating with local authorities and ready to respond. Rainfall is due to continue on Monday, while water levels are expected to peak during the week.“While countries in Europe have made significant steps in understanding and preparing for climate risks, the implementation is lagging behind the rapidly increasing risk levels,” says Andreas von Weissenberg.“We need to scale up climate adaptation action - including locally led approaches and strengthening local capacities - and build preparedness and resilience,” he adds.Note to editors:Photos from Romania: https://shared.ifrc.org/collections/4401Photos from Austria: https://shared.ifrc.org/collections/4402For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Budapest: Nora Peter +36 70 953 7709In Bucharest: Diana Hohol +40 730 865 106In Geneva: Hannah Copeland +44 7535316633
Bangladesh has been experiencing severe flooding due to heavy rainfall triggered by an active monsoon season. More than 14.6 million people have been affected across the southeastern, northeastern and northern parts of the country, with 71 fatalities recorded by 3 September in the southeastern region alone. Through this appeal, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society will address urgent needs related to shelter, food security, livelihoods, health, and water, sanitation and hygiene in the eight most affected districts.
Dhaka/Kuala Lumpur/GenevaSince mid-June, 14.6 million people in Bangladesh have been affected by severe floods. Homes, belongings and livelihoods have been swept away, and the latest floods from end of August have left more than half a million people displaced. The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and partners, has launched an emergency appeal aimed at relief for those hit by floods in the northern, eastern and southern regions of the country.With the latest flooding due to extreme rainfall in the south and east of Bangladesh since the end of August, districts face the worst flooding situation in more than 30 years. Furthermore, rainfall predictions indicate that Sylhet, Chattogram, Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions may see even more extreme rain during September. A big part of the flooded areas, especially in the south and east, are areas that have not previously been subject to these kinds of floods. Communities are overwhelmed.“The destruction caused by the current floods is immense. BDRCS plays an invaluable role, particularly in reaching people in inaccessible and remote areas. But more support is needed to provide the urgent aid and relief items needed.” said the Head of Delegation of the IFRC country delegation in Bangladesh, Alberto Bocanegra.Prioritizing most affected communitiesThrough the emergency appeal, the BDRCS will focus on the most affected communities, with humanitarian assistance focused on access to water, sanitation and hygiene, shelter, food security, livelihoods and health. The main focus of the relief work is focused on districts of Feni, Noakhali, Cumila and Lakhsmipur.In these districts, assessments have found vast numbers of families with damaged houses, water and sanitation. Livelihoods have been severely impacted particularly in industries like agriculture and fish farming. Those with especially high needs include marginalized groups, and people displaced and living in collective centers, with relatives or in other people’s houses.The AppealAn IFRC emergency appeal for 7.5 million Swiss francs aims to reach 400,000 people, with the BDRCS ensuring the dignity, access, participation, and safety of the most vulnerable populations. This includes elderly people, children and adolescents, marginal-income farmers, female-headed households, pregnant women, widows, and persons with disabilities.“Our volunteers have been on the ground from the day one of each flood, providing critical assistance. But support from our partners and the global community is essential to reach the families affected. We urge the international community to stand with Bangladesh during this critical time,” said Secretary General of the BDRCS, Kabir Md. Ashraf Alam.The BDRCS work closely with communities, local authorities, and community leaders to assist the most affected families. Coordination with other agencies will be maintained to avoid any duplication of efforts.You can see the emergency appeal here.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Dhaka: Camilla Bruun Simonsen, +880 17 0451 4972Al-Shahriar Rupam, +880 17 6177 5075In Kuala Lumpur:Afrhill Rances, +601 9271 3641In GenevaTommaso Della Longa: +41 79 7084367 Andrew Thomas: +41 76 3676587
Benghazi / Rabat / Beirut / Geneva, 4 September 2024 – One year after the devastating earthquake in Morocco and catastrophic floods in Libya, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), alongside the Moroccan and Libyan Red Crescents, remains committed to supporting the recovery and rebuilding efforts in these hard-hit regions. These disasters, which struck within days of each other in September 2023, left deep scars on the affected communities, but also demonstrated the strength and resilience of those impacted.Morocco: A Year of Recovery and ResilienceOn 8 September 2023, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck the High Atlas Mountain range in Morocco, affecting over 660,000 people and causing widespread destruction. Over 59,000 homes were damaged or destroyed, leaving 380,000 people without shelter. From the outset, the Moroccan Red Crescent Society (MRC) mobilized to provide emergency aid, including search and rescue operations, first aid, and the distribution of essential relief items.Reflecting on the past year, Dr. Mohammed Bendali, Head of Disaster Management, First-Aid Volunteering and Youth for the Moroccan Red Crescent, said, "The scale of the devastation was immense, but so was the response. Our volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to support the affected communities, providing not only material aid but also mental health and psychosocial support to help people cope with the trauma of the disaster."The focus has now shifted to early recovery, with efforts concentrated on providing durable, insulated shelters, temporary classrooms and clinics, enhancing access to clean water and sanitation, and rebuilding livelihoods, while also looking to complement the support provided by the government to the affected families. Despite the challenges, the MRC remains committed to supporting the affected families for as long as necessary.Libya: Facing the Aftermath of Unprecedented FloodsIn early September 2023, Storm Daniel unleashed heavy rainfall on Libya's northeastern coast, resulting in catastrophic floods that claimed over 5,900 lives and left more than 43,000 people homeless. The failure of two dams above the city – the first at about 11pm on 10 September, the second closer to 1am on 11 September – unleashed catastrophic amounts of water on the city of Derna.The Libyan Red Crescent Society (LRCS) was on the ground immediately following the disaster, providing critical emergency aid, including search and rescue operations, first aid, and the distribution of food, water, and shelter materials. Tragically, the disaster also claimed the lives of several Red Crescent volunteers who were working to save others."One year on, the pain of loss is still deeply felt in the communities we serve," said Omar Jaouda, Secretary General of the Libyan Red Crescent. "But the resilience of the people is remarkable. We have continued to support those most affected, including thousands who are still displaced, as they rebuild their lives and homes."Going forward, the Libyan Red Crescent is transitioning to long-term recovery and resilience by prioritising three key areas: first, increasing attention to recovery and resilience planning and implementation, ensuring that communities are equipped to withstand future shocks and recover effectively. Second, the National Society will bolster its capacity, preparedness, and readiness. And, third, the Libyan Red Crescent will enhance its security management practices to safeguard its operations and personnel, particularly in challenging environments, while also ensuring accountability in all its actions to maintain trust and transparency within the communities it serves.The IFRC’s Emergency Appeal for Libya, which aimed for CHF 20 million to address the extensive needs, has raised CHF 12.4 million to date. These funds have been critical in supporting 130,000 people with essential services, including shelter, health care, and psychosocial support. The IFRC is also working to enhance the LRCS’s capacity for future disaster response by renovating key facilities and equipping an Emergency Operations Centre in Derna.Looking Ahead: A Long Road to RecoveryBoth Morocco and Libya face long and challenging roads to recovery. The IFRC, together with the Moroccan and Libyan Red Crescents and other Red Cross and Red Crescent societies around the world, will continue to stand by these communities, providing the necessary support to ensure that they not only recover but also build resilience against future disasters."The events of last year were a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by communities in disaster-prone regions," said Dr. Hossam El Sharkawi, IFRC Regional DIrector for the Middle East and North Africa. "But they also highlighted the importance of local preparedness and the incredible impact of collective humanitarian efforts. We are committed to supporting the Moroccan and Libyan Red Crescents in their ongoing work to help these communities rebuild and thrive."For more information or to request an interview on/from Morocco or Libya – or from an IFRC spokesperson able to talk about both - please contact: [email protected] In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67Andrew Thomas: +41 76 367 65 87In Beirut: Mey Al Sayegh: +961 761 744 68
Heavy rains have caused destruction and displacement in Yemen, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. This emergency appeal aims to provide aid to the people most affected by the floods. Assistance will focus on those whose homes and temporary shelters were completely or partially destroyed, people whose livelihoods were affected, those who are in need of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and health services, and those who are at risk of exposure to the impact of further anticipated flooding. Please donate now and join us in making a meaningful difference for the 600,000 people supported by the Yemen Red Crescent Society in this response.
For more than a decade now, the people of South Sudan have faced enormous hardships caused by on-going internal conflict, mass displacement and a series of climate-related disasters that have paradoxically brought both extended droughts and intense rainfall. “In 2019, a third of the country was under water, with all the consequences that entails,” says Bonface Okotch, water and sanitation expert for the Netherlands Red Cross in South Sudan. Since then, communities across large swaths of the county have periodically been completely inundated and displaced, their crops and livelihoods ruined.The county of Aweil South in northern South Sudan is one area heavily affected by cyclic flooding and violence, as well as an influx of refugees fleeing violence across the country’s northern border with Sudan.At the same time, water and sanitation coverage in the country is low – less than 10 per cent have access to improved sanitation and 42 per cent do not have access to reliable, safe and sustainable water sources.This not only leaves the population vulnerable to infectious diseases, it means people spend an inordinate amount of time getting water from far away sources. This takes away from other essentials such as education, livelihoods and food production that bring health and stability to families and communities.A peaceful and sustainable futureOne ongoing project is addressing this dynamic. In partnership with the European Union (EU), the IFRC, the South Sudan Red Cross and the Netherlands Red Cross have been able to reduce the impact of flooding and droughts, while building resilience so that people can continue to recover from future setbacks.As part of the project, known as the Programmatic Partnership, the South Sudan Red Cross has played a central role in rehabilitating water facilities while also building new ones that are designed to be sustainable over the long term, saysAbdallah Bennet, a water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) expert for the South Sudan Red Cross.“In certain areas, communities face challenges due to limited access to clean water, particularly during flooding," he says. "Upgrading hand pumps to solar systems is a key aspect of our work. Through the Programmatic Partnership project, we're addressing these challenges with sustainable solutions.“We empower local communities by training pump mechanics and water-use committees, ensuring they can manage and maintain water points effectively themselves,” he says. “Water is life. It is fundamental for life itself. Without it, nothing goes on.”The South Sudan Red Cross has also trained volunteers on hygiene promotion (handwashing, safe handling of water and food, construction and use of toilets, communication skills, among other things) so they can conduct house-to-house, hygiene- promotion visits.But that’s not all. “People in the communities are trained to assess weather risks, monitor water levels and take rapid action if the community is at risk,” says Bonface. “During emergencies, they strengthen dikes, clear drainage channels and provide assistance to vulnerable groups.”The work being done in Aweil is just one example of how access to safe water – along with other other coordinated efforts to minimize risks – plays a critical role in stabilizing the health of communities facing multiple threats.As the humanitarian world marks World Water Week, which this year promotes the theme of Bridging Borders: Water for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future,this project offers an example of the collaborative efforts needed if vulnerable communities are to enjoy a peaceful and sustainable future.After the installation of the water facilities in Aweil South, for example, the community haswitnessed a significant improvement in the well-being and community health,according to the South Soudan Red cross.“I am very happy that Red Cross installed the water yard in our community,”saysAbu Adub, a local resident in the village Gakrol in Aweil South .“People are using it a lot. Near the hand pump, it’s always crowded.This has led to a decrease in diseases such as diarrhea, especially among children and the elderly.”Proximity to safe water sources allows for more time for other household tasks, such as caring for children.“Before, when we had no water yard, we used to drink from the well and it was not good for our health,”saysAdut Wek, who lives in Gakrol, in the Aweil region.“When we had no water, our children used to take a bath (in the well) late at night. We used to fetch water from the well over there, and also from the river. It used to take a long time to get the water. At least two hours.“Since the Red Cross supported us with the handpump, the children can take a bath earlier and then go home.”“Before, when we drank water from the river, we used to get stomach aches,”Adut continues. “Since we have the water yard, we don’t have any waterborne diseases anymore. The main challenge now is that some people live far away and still don’t have water.”More information about the Programmatic Partnership and IFRC’s work providing safe water:The Health, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) support available in Aweil is supported by theProgrammatic Partnership between the IFRC network and theEuropean Union. The partnership provides strategic, flexible, long-term and predictable funding, so that National Societies can act before a crisis or health emergency occurs. It is being implemented in 24 countries around the world.IFRC Water Sanitation and Hygiene ProgrammingWorld Water Day 2024
Heavy rains between 21 and 22 July 2024 triggered successive landslides in the remote mountainous regions of southern Ethiopia, causing significant loss of life and devastation. The area has continued to experience heavy rainfall and flooding in recent weeks and updated weather forecasts predict even more rain, which is particularly concerning as the region's topography and vulnerability to extreme weather make it prone to landslides. The region is already characterized by intensified epidemics, and food insecurity is likely to increase.
Can Costa Rica’s largest ambulance fleet become completely carbon neutral? How can we better work with the forces of nature to protect our communities from natural calamities? Is it possible to save lives and save the planet at the same time? These are some of the questions that the first woman president of the Costa Rican Red Cross, Dyanne Marenco Gonzalez, tackles during this wide-ranging interview about her 20-year humanitarian career. She also discusses the challenges of being a young woman leader in the male-dominated fields of law and emergency response.
