Sana’a — The United Nations has reported that at least 180 displaced families in Yemen have been severely impacted by heavy seasonal rains and flash flooding, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian conditions in the war-torn country.

According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the affected families—many of whom were sheltering in makeshift camps—lost tents, personal belongings, and access to basic services after intense rainfall swept through several governorates, including Hajjah, Al Hudaydah, and Marib.

“These families were already living in extremely vulnerable conditions. The flooding has stripped them of what little protection they had,” said a UN humanitarian spokesperson.

Emergency Response Underway

UN agencies, including UNICEF and UNFPA, have mobilized Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) teams to deliver emergency supplies such as food rations, hygiene kits, and temporary shelter materials. However, aid workers warn that logistical challenges—such as damaged roads and landmine-contaminated areas—are slowing relief efforts.

The UN has called for urgent funding to scale up its response, noting that more than 18 million people across Yemen remain in need of humanitarian assistance. The recent floods have intensified those needs, particularly among displaced populations living in flood-prone zones.

Climate and Conflict Collide

Yemen’s rainy season, which began in late June, has brought unusually intense precipitation, triggering widespread damage to infrastructure and displacement across multiple regions. Humanitarian experts say the combination of climate shocks and prolonged conflict is creating a “perfect storm” of vulnerability.

“The situation is devastating. We are doing everything we can to reach those affected, but the scale of need is staggering,” said Peter Hawkins, UNICEF Representative to Yemen.