Catastrophic floods in South Sudan push local inhabitants towards confronting snake encounters, diseases, and food scarcity

In South Sudan, a devastating flood has swept through 27 out of the 78 counties, impacting the lives of over 630,000 people. The flooding, which started during the dry season in 2019, is unlike anything the country has seen in more than six decades.

The flooding has submerged the airstrip and road network, cutting off vital aid donations and leaving many communities isolated. In Twic East County, Jonglei State, most areas are accessible only by canoes and motorboats. Ambulances have been replaced by these watercraft, as residents desperately seek medical help, pleading for sandbags, plastic sheeting, medicine, tents, and food.

Pregnant women with complications rely on the goodwill of others to reach medical facilities. The health situation in the affected areas is dire, with the outbreak of malaria and finding antimalarial drugs in health facilities proving difficult. The flooding has also caused a high number of snake bites, adding to the health crisis.

Finding antibiotics in health facilities is also challenging, leading to increased cases of waterborne diseases. The flooding has disrupted the economy, health, and education, with women and children being the hardest hit.

Climate change, deforestation, population growth, and poor water management are the reasons behind this catastrophe. Yves Willemot, chief of communication for UNICEF in South Sudan, emphasized the need for an urgent response to the effects of climate change at COP26.

Humanitarian aid organizations in Jonglei State are supported by entities such as the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) peacekeepers conducting veterinary and community support camps, the European Union funding projects like FOPNAG implemented by Veterinarians Without Borders together with local partners, and other NGOs providing food, medicines, tents, and sandbags to flood victims.

Various organizations, including Community in Need Aid (CINA) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), are accepting donations to help flood victims in South Sudan. Lynsey Addario, a photographer and author, has had her work funded by The Society, a group committed to illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world.

The flooding has left many families without their cattle, livestock, and crops, leaving fish as their only source of food. As the floodwaters recede, the people of South Sudan face an uphill battle to rebuild their lives and communities. The world must act now to provide the necessary aid and support to those affected.

Catastrophic floods in South Sudan push local inhabitants towards confronting snake encounters, diseases, and food scarcity