An estimated 886,106 people have been affected widespread flooding in 26 counties across South Sudan as of October, with heavy rainfall and rising water levels along the River Nile threatening to worsen the situation, the UN humanitarian agency said.
Settlements in six states have now been inundated, with Jonglei and Unity accounting for over 91 per cent of the affected population, said the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
The flooding has also displaced 287,300 people across 16 counties, with many now sheltering on higher ground. Widespread damage has been reported to homes, crops, schools, boreholes, and other public infrastructure.
OCHA warns that the number of affected people is expected to rise.
In Jonglei State, severe flooding was reported on 8 October in Khorwac Town, Pigi County, following overflow from the River Nile. The agency said all public facilities—health centres, schools, and water points—have been submerged and people have relocated to higher ground.
In Upper Nile State, flooding in Malakal County on 6 October displaced hundreds from six villages, forcing them to seek refuge on elevated ground.
In Unity State, extensive flooding in Rotriak (Rubkona County) has displaced families to roadside areas, where risks of injury and snakebites are increasing.
Since 29 September, persistent rains have severely damaged roads in Rubkona and Bentiu Towns, cutting off access. Most southern parts of the county are now accessible only by canoe, which humanitarian actors are using to deliver aid.
The dykes near the Bentiu UNMISS base are reported to be in poor condition and at risk of breaching. A failure could flood Bentiu IDP camp, home to nearly 109,000 displaced people. IOM began urgent repairs on 7 October.
Despite access challenges caused by impassable roads, especially in Unity, Upper Nile, and Jonglei States, OCHA said humanitarian partners are delivering life-saving assistance to affected communities.