The findings of a rapid scientific assessment conducted by UNESCO on landslide risks in Sudan indicate that the Red Sea Hills are the area most exposed to the hazard, with more than 65,336 people living in high-risk areas. While a large part of Jebel Marra was classified as relatively stable, localized debris-flow hazards associated with heavy rainfall could affect more than 5,021 people. The Tarsin disaster in Jebel Marra was also used to validate the assessment model and guide the proposed action plan.
UNESCO estimates that around 70,000 people in Darfur and the Red Sea Hills face landslide risks and could directly benefit from improved risk information, public awareness, and preparedness measures.
UNESCO said that, following the Tarsin disaster in August last year, it launched a rapid scientific assessment of landslide risks in Sudan, using satellite imagery and other geospatial technologies to identify areas at risk and support evidence-based action.
The organization noted that “the assessment was conducted between April 3 and May 31, 2026, and covered four major areas: the Red Sea Hills, the Jebel Marra Massif, the Nuba Mountains, and the Ingessana Hills in Blue Nile State.”
