UN Warns of Escalating Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan Ahead of Rainy Season

The United Nations has warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan as the rainy season approaches, expected to last until October. There are growing fears of imminent floods that could disrupt relief operations and increase the risk of disease outbreaks, at a time when the country is experiencing a near-total collapse of its healthcare infrastructure.

In a statement, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) expressed concern that the expected flooding could cut off road access to affected areas, threatening to block the delivery of vital aid to millions in need. Humanitarian organizations are also facing a severe funding shortfall, limiting their ability to pre-position supplies ahead of the rainy season.

The statement noted that floods last year affected around half a million people, warning that the number could be even higher this year, particularly with ongoing mass displacement caused by the more than two-year-long conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The United Nations emphasized that addressing the humanitarian crisis requires urgent funding estimated at $4.2 billion to meet the needs of over 20 million people throughout 2025, amid growing international calls for support before the situation worsens due to the floods and ongoing conflict.