Flooding in Hodeidah, Yemen Claims Lives and Displaces Hundreds

SANAA, Yemen – Severe flooding in the southern city of Hodeidah has resulted in the deaths of 30 individuals and left hundreds displaced, following several days of heavy rainfall. Hodeidah Governor reported that five people remain missing as the region grapples with the aftermath of the floods, which have also affected the southwestern city of Taiz and the northwestern city of Hajjah. The seasonal rains have exacerbated the situation, leading to the destruction of poorly constructed homes. Local authorities have struggled to reach the most severely impacted areas for two days, leaving many residents trapped in their homes. Witnesses described the devastation in the Yemeni Tihamah coastal plain, with one resident stating, “The floods swept away everything.” Some families have managed to evacuate to Hodeidah city, while others remain stranded, facing dire conditions. One mother of seven lamented the loss of their makeshift home due to severe winds and flooding. In response to the crisis, Mahdi al-Mashat, chairman of the Supreme Political Council, has directed local authorities to assist affected areas. Reports indicate that the floods have caused significant damage to properties, agricultural lands, and infrastructure. Community members expressed frustration over the lack of humanitarian assistance, with one resident noting that hundreds of straw-built homes have been destroyed. Rapid response teams are currently assessing the situation, identifying approximately 4,112 families in need of emergency relief, as the region continues to face the challenges posed by the ongoing flooding.